Local farmers, artisans, and food producers in Renfrew County are invited to apply for a spot at the 2026 Taste of the Valley markets. The County of Renfrew Economic Development Division, which manages the event series, has officially opened the application process for the upcoming season.
The markets aim to showcase local food and handmade goods from across the region. Those interested in exhibiting at any of the five events must submit a completed application by May 8, 2026, to be included in the first round of approvals. Applicants will be notified of their status by June 1, 2026.
The 2026 season includes events in five different communities across the county:
- Barry’s Bay on August 8
- Douglas on August 22
- Petawawa on September 19
- Cobden on October 17
- Renfrew on December 12
Each event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offers free admission to the public. Booth fees for vendors vary depending on space type and participation frequency. Outdoor spaces cost $75 plus tax for the first event and $50 plus tax for each additional market, while indoor booths are $90 plus tax for the first event and $75 plus tax for subsequent ones.
First established in 2007 in Cobden, the event series returned to in-person formats in 2022 following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. The Cobden market typically serves as the largest gathering of the season, featuring over 130 vendors.
For more information or to submit an application, visit the Taste of the Valley website. Inquiries can also be directed to Scott Hamilton, the economic development coordinator for the County of Renfrew, at 613-735-7288, extension 452.
