St. Jacobs Market District
St. Jacobs Market District is the country’s largest farmers’ market, featuring a farmers’ market, antique market and outlet mall. Open year-round, this famous shopping destination attracts over one million visitors annually.
Over 100 local farmers and vendors sell meats, cheese, fruits and vegetables, flowers, honey, preserves and more. The aroma of freshly baked apple fritters, hot doner kebab and falafel, samosas, sausages and perogies will make it hard to resist buying something to eat on the spot.
You’ll find everything on your shopping list, plus much more, in the St. Jacobs Market District.
Market Road Antiques | Waterloo Region
How to get to St. Jacobs Market District
Location: 878 Weber Street North, Woolwich
By car: Located about 1.5 hours west of Toronto, St. Jacobs Market District can be reached via the ON-401 and the ON-85 north from Kitchener. Free and accessible parking is available in nearby lots.
By transit: GO Transit provides regular bus service to Waterloo. The Grand River Transit Route 19 bus travels directly to the St. Jacobs Market.
Know before you go
The St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is open year-round on Thursdays and Saturdays and on ten Tuesdays during the summer. The outlet mall and antique market are open every day.
For the best experience, head to the farmers’ market in the morning and get your first pick of produce. Vendors change weekly, so do a lap when you arrive to get an idea of what’s available before you start buying.
Things to do at St. Jacobs Market District
Discover more activities and experiences.
Enjoy local food
Explore a wide range of fresh produce and snacks from the market vendors including fresh fruit, syrup, bread, pastries and more.
Go on a shopping spree
Visit stalls and artisans selling everything from homemade bath bombs to delicate jewellery to blown glass products.
Uncover rare finds
Enjoy the thrill of discovery at Market Road Antiques, which features over 100 booths with dealers offering antiques and collectibles.
Experience Mennonite history
Learn about the history of the market and its food traditions on with the St. Jacobs Market Food Tour. This guided journey will introduce you to Mennonite culture and friendly local vendors.
Attend seasonal events
Participate in lively events held year-round at St. Jacobs, including Halloween Kids Day, Harvest Hoedown and the popular St. Jacobs Christmas Market.
Discover budget-friendly deals
Shop for apparel, footwear, accessories and household items at the St. Jacobs Outlet Mall. Located across the street from the farmers’ market, you’ll find great discounts on top brands.
Articles and itineraries
Get ideas and inspiration for your next trip.
Interesting facts about St. Jacobs Market District
Established in April 1975 by eight farmers, the market was originally just a scattering of outdoor tents. In 1986 a two-storey wooden building was constructed to accommodate the growing farmers’ market. The wood was sourced from Douglas fir beams from British Columbia.
The market’s original main building was destroyed by a fire in 2013. Two years later, it was rebuilt and reopened.
The surrounding Waterloo Region is home to the largest population of Old Order Mennonites in Ontario, and it’s common to see farmers on local roads travelling to the market by horse and buggy.
Last updated: October 11, 2024