The Salt Spring Saturday Market is the island's weekly gathering of growers, bakers and makers in Centennial Park, Ganges. It's a good reason to plan a visit around a Saturday, but it's seasonal, and on other days the island's makers are found in galleries, shops and studios instead. This guide covers both.
When the market runs
According to the market's website, the 2026 season ran:
- Every Saturday from April 4 to October 31, 2026
- 9 am to 3 pm, extending to 4 pm in summer
- In Centennial Park, Ganges
The market had not posted its 2027 dates when we checked on November 9, 2026. It has held December holiday markets in past years; check the market's site for any seasonal events.
Dogs: the market says a local bylaw doesn't allow dogs in the market or the park.
Arriving in Ganges for the market
Centennial Park is in the centre of Ganges, a short walk from the harbour. How you arrive shapes your morning:
- By seaplane: flights land in Ganges Harbour, and Harbour Air's terminal is in Grace Point Square, close to the park.
- By ferry: sailings arrive at Long Harbour (from Tsawwassen), Fulford Harbour (from Swartz Bay) or Vesuvius Bay (from Crofton). Island buses connect each terminal with Ganges. Check that bus and ferry times work for an early arrival.
Our Vancouver to Salt Spring guide compares the routes.
Can I visit on a day trip?
Possibly. It depends on whether you can arrive while the market is busy and leave with enough time to make your return. Check actual flight or ferry times for that Saturday before committing, and remember that weather can delay seaplanes. We don't suggest specific flights to match market hours, because schedules change.
A more relaxed plan is to arrive on Friday and stay at least one night. See a Salt Spring weekend.
Planning to fly in? See Harbour Air's Salt Spring (Ganges) schedules (opens harbourair.com)
Making the most of the market
- Arrive early for the best produce and baked goods, and fewer crowds.
- Bring cash as a backup, as well as cards.
- Bring a reusable bag, and think about how purchases will travel home. If you're flying, your fare's weight allowance includes everything you carry; see packing for a seaplane trip.
- Ask before photographing vendors or their work.
Ganges makers on other days
If you're visiting outside the market season or on a weekday:
- Galleries in Ganges show island and regional artists year-round, though hours may be shorter in winter.
- Shops in the village carry island-made goods, from soaps to ceramics.
- Studios around the island often open by appointment or on posted days. Island studio maps list participating artists; confirm hours before setting out.
- Farm stands sell seasonally, some on an honour system.
A rainy or non-market day
Pair a gallery circuit in Ganges with a long lunch and a browse through village shops. If you have transport, one or two studio visits by appointment can make a quiet day memorable. For a broader view of the island, see things to do on Salt Spring Island.
FAQs
When does the market run? Saturdays in season. In 2026 it ran from April 4 to October 31. Check the market's website for 2027 dates.
Can I visit on a day trip? Sometimes, depending on transport times that Saturday. An overnight is more relaxed.
What's open on other days? Ganges galleries and shops, plus studios and farm stands on their own schedules.