The summer Sunset Market is changing locations to Clutesi Haven Marina this year.
Formerly located at Victoria Quay, the weekly summer market is moving to take advantage of more space and less wind at Clutesi, according to market coordinator Jolleen Dick.
“It is moving to Clutesi Haven Marina because the site offers more space, parking and public washrooms,” said Dick. The market, which will kick off its fourth year on June 22, is a partnership between the Hupacasath First Nation (Dick is an elected councillor and the band’s communications coordinator) and the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce.
This year, the market will run Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m. from June 22 to the end of August.
According to Port Alberni Port Authority director of public relations and business development Dave McCormick, the Sunset Market was the perfect fit for their marina.
“We’re excited to have the Sunset Market take advantage of the growing interest in the community, and general public, in such outside markets, by hosting them at the Clutesi Haven Marina grounds,” said McCormick.
“The new location offers a larger area for more vendors and visitors in a highly visible, beautiful location. We expect the move to be very popular and help showcase what the area can become and grow into as an attraction for locals and guests of Port Alberni.”
The market will be located on the grassy area at Clutesi and apart from parking for attendees and vendors, won’t affect sportfishing.
“The area at Clutesi Haven Marina is mostly day use parking anyway and people often go fishing in the morning so I don’t foresee that being an issue at this moment,” said Dick.
“[The area in use] will be the portion that’s closest to the road, right behind the storage and washroom facilities and beside VI Fries. It’s just the grassy area.”
The Sunset Market is now accepting applications for vendors. To apply, visit www.sunsetmarketpa.com.
reporter@albernivalleynews.com