Vancouver is a city that prides itself on two things in particular – its high quality of life and the diversity of many residents. However, it’s often disparagingly mentioned as a “no fun city” and becoming increasingly unaffordable for residents. Are street markets in public spaces a solution that Vancouver is missing out on?
Independent Vendors in Vancouver’s Third Spaces?
Street markets are nothing new to Vancouver. There are several farmers markets in the Spring and Summer months where local produce vendors and artisans can be found. Mount Pleasant, False Creek, the West End, and Kitsilano neighboruhoods all have their own farmer’s markets just to name a few. Find a list of the local markets here HERE). And if you’re really into food trucks, check out this page tracking all food trucks across Vancouver! These are seasonal as the dreary Vancouver winter would likely dampen the spirit of the most enthusiastic vendor but perhaps an indoor option is an alternative. Granville Island and the Lonsdale Quay are two places that come to mind that operate year round. Despite these options, some Vancouverites believe that there is more room for expansion.
Economic Growth and Cultural Highlights
Internationally, but particularly in Asia and Latin America, there is a tradition of open air street markets that have become renowned for both their bounty of different food options and affordable prices for Western travelers. From the small, one chef-one specialty stands, to the upscale Michelin star affairs, these markets follow a similar set up to most food courts in shopping malls. Shared tables set up in a parking lot sized space where patrons can sample a plethora of different dishes and shop for fresh produce. The opportunity would be ripe for immigrant enclaves within Vancouver to showcase their home to their new neighbors. Not to mention that this would provide an income source for new arrivals to Canada as they establish themselves in a new country.
Should Vancouver allow for more independent vendors to set up street markets in third spaces?
Increasing the number of street vendors would provide not only entrepreneurial minded Vancouverites with the opportunity to get into business but also increase revenue at already existing commercial areas. Quick meals are already available at every shopping mall which typically feature a laundry list of fast food chains. But imagine for a second that beside your neighborhood shopping center, there is a group of several local food vendors offering a greater variety of choice at a discount. For the City of Vancouver, this would conceivably expand the revenue stream from the permits allotted and also increase competition which would in theory lower costs on the average Vancouverite.
Socially, Vancouver has a reputation for being a cliquey place that is difficult for newcomers to build connections. One of the easiest ways that people can connect is over food. It’s difficult to harbor animosity towards someone who makes a mean bowl of noodles or freshly baked bread.
Turning third spaces into street markets would provide not only economic benefits but also give people a chance to interact organically and share in one of life’s great pleasures – sharing a meal with an interesting stranger.
