When the warm weather arrives, B.C.’s farmlands spring into action - and Port Alberni is no exception. Our town hosts two fantastic farmers’ markets through the spring and summer months, and there is no better way to experience Vancouver Island than to taste some of its fresh produce and peruse unique artisanal products. Pick up a handmade keepsake or grab a bit to eat - it doesn’t get much more fresh than this! 

The Spirit Square Farmers’ Market at the Harbour Quay is a familiar meeting place for the Port Alberni community every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. It’s right on the water’s edge, and there is a great playground for little ones close to the marketplace.

The Port Alberni Farmers’ Market also happens each Saturday, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., at the First Baptist Church on Cherry Creek Road.

Both farmers’ market locations are less than 10 minutes from our beautiful Port Alberni hotel, the Best Western Barclay. A selection of our rooms also have a refrigerator, so you can pick up some delicious fresh produce to munch on later. Book your room at the Barclay today for our best rates - use our secure online reservation and have a great time in Port Alberni!

Point of Interest: Mars Water Bomber May Be Back In Action

For the last few years, the iconic read and white Martin Mars water bomber has been sitting idle on Sproat Lake near Port Alberni, and has become quite a regular stop for tourists. Built for the Navy during the Second World War, it’s quite a sight! It also carries the most water of any water bomber in the world: 27,000 litres, to be exact.

Recently, the plane’s owner and the province of B.C. have agreed to put the old girl back into action to help combat this year’s particularly bad forest fire season. You just may get a rare chance to see this historic water bomber in action over Sproat Lake this summer!

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