
Strolling the back lane between Bannatyne and McDermot at the first of four Alleyways Markets planned for the Exchange this summer. /GREG PETZOLD
A distinct Exchange District take on the outdoor market is coming to an alleyway near you!
Alleyways Market in the Exchange is one-part farmers market, one-part design exhibition and one-part curated pop-up shop.
From 4pm to 10pm, four nights this season, Alleyways Market in the Exchange will take place in the often overlooked alleyways and carriage ways that connect Exchange District buildings and form a key part of its character.
Market One took place Fri. Jun. 24, from 4pm to 10pm, in the alleyway behind Forth, U.N. Luggage, The Mitchell Block and Johnny G’s.
This amazing event is brought to you by local creative firm, The Distillery, co-organizer, Tom Janzen, and successful pop-up shop operators, Luckygirl, in partnership with the Exchange District BIZ.
“Luckygirl Popup is curating the maker side of things,” said David Pensato, co-organizer and Principal with The Distillery.
“They’ve done such a great job on their pop-ups and they really know how to pull together a fantastic mix of makers,” Pensato said.
“On the food side, we’ll be providing a great mix of produce, fish, chicken, sweets, baking, seasonings and beverages. We also have local restaurants as part of the mix. They are pretty keen on offering up some unique items to either take home or quickly eat right there. And of course, everything is either locally or regionally produced,” he said.

Urban market: Manitoba foods and products were on the menu at Friday’s Alleyway Market in the Exchange. /GREG PETZOLD
The Exchange District BIZ is thrilled to support Alleyways Market in the Exchange as it promotes local business, addresses the issue of limited fresh food access downtown, activates different areas of the district and brings people together in the community.
“A unique event like this really serves the community in a positive way,” said Brian Timmerman, Executive Director of the Exchange District BIZ.
“We are thrilled to support an event that provides people with a really fun environment in addition to supporting local businesses, farmers and makers in the Exchange.”
Dates and locations of future markets will be announced soon and will be posted on http://alleywaysmarket.ca/