'We're open and awestruck': Downtown indoor market finally opens

The Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market debuted in its permanentindoor home on Saturday.

After months of delays, vendors welcomed shoppers to stalls inside the historic GWG building on 97th Street and 103rd Avenue.

"We're open and awestruck. Absolutely wonderful. It's better than I ever expected," said market board member Sherry Horvath.

Initially meant to open in the spring, renovations didn't wrap up until autumn.

• Indoor downtown farmers market launch faces last-minute setback

An attempt to hold a grand opening earlier this month was stymied when the city paused last-minute renovations over permitting issues.

Horvath said themarket's opening Saturday wasn't confirmed until after 5:30 p.m. Friday. Despite the last-minute notice, market organizers were happy withthe crowds and the positive reception on thefirst day.

"Everybody that walks in the door loves it," she said.

• Downtown farmers market heads back to 104th Street
• Despite delay on new digs, downtown farmers market moves to new location

The light-filledbuilding features tall windows andhardwood floors. Many of its historic features have been retained.

Though the market has had a temporary winter home in city hall, it is best known for its summer location on 104th Street, where it existed for 15 years.

While the street location was popular with market lovers, the new home shelters vendors and their customers from unpleasant weather.

The market will be open every Saturdayfrom 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.