Milestone celebration for Bow Island’s Market in the Park 

Posted on June 5, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Market in the Park, an initiative of the local Chamber of Commerce, is celebrating an incredible milestone – it’s the 10th anniversary of this community event. While many come to enjoy the performers and vendors, the event has a deeper meaning that ties into community connection.

The first market of the year takes place on July 2 and runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. through July and August every Wednesday in Bow Island Centennial Park. The evening times started as a way to accommodate those working full-time during the day. The result was such a success that the evening time slot continues, drawing in those looking for a great way to spend time outdoors at a family-friendly community event during the summer.

Committee Chair Kathy Nixdorf says the Market draws over 1,000 people during its two-month run. She also notes that vendor participation is easy and efficient – simply find the sign up sheet on the Market in the Park Facebook page ahead of the weekly vendor deadline.

In anticipation of the 10 year anniversary, some of the performers from years past are returning. In addition, each week sees a different community association or group running the concession. The group runs the concession as a fundraiser, which means all the funds they raise selling food bolsters the group.

“Last year we kept around $6,500 in the community, going back into those small groups through the concession,” says Nixdorf of the impact.

During the second week of August, the Market hosts its annual fundraiser. This year HALO Air Ambulance makes its return as a beneficiary of the fundraiser. As Southern Alberta’s only dedicated helicopter emergency medical service, HALO has flown thousands of missions and helped to save countless lives. HALO receives less than half of its operating budget from the Government of Alberta, relying instead on the generosity of community-focused individuals, small businesses, corporate partners, and key regional municipalities. The Market in the Park fundraiser is an important event for this emergency service.

Nixdorf adds, “We are very happy to recognize HALO again as the Market in the Park’s annual fundraising driver recipient. In the past, they have brought out a helicopter and with the assistance of the local fire department, landed it on site. Following, the pilot and HALO representatives answered questions and conducted tours of the chopper. Expect to see the helicopter again this year.”

That’s not all! In addition to the 20+ vendors showcasing baking, crafts, fruit, home based businesses and more, there will be a car show on July 16th and two movie nights put on FCSS. Last year’s car show had 25 vehicles show up, and even more are anticipated for this season.

Nixdorf sums it all up in the best way possible, “There is a wide variety of things available. There is a little bit of everything!”

Market in the Park is a wonderful way to enjoy and empower the community this summer while finding treasures with the vendors. Visit the Market in the Park Facebook page to sign up as a vendor and to learn more.