The Swift Current Market Square had a powerful return for its first time back, kicking off the long-standing summer staple in the community. 

Market Square offers small local businesses a hub to sell food, handmade items, and so much more, backed by entertainment and kids' activities. This particular event featured a fundraiser chili cookoff hosted by The Center, as well as multiple musical guests. 

Grasslands Events owner Kirstin Patzer said the City contracted her company to do the event’s coordination for the first time. 

“It was a great first day, we had lots of people out,” said Patzer. “I'm new to it, but they tell me this is peak summer traffic, and we got it out on the first day so we're really happy with that.” 

The Chili Cookoff portion of Market Square pitted first responders against each other to raise funds for The Center. Between EMS, RCMP and Swift Current Fire Department, the local EMS chili took both prizes; one earned by popular vote and the other by judges. 

"We had the farmers market section as usual, and they didn't have their tents this week,” stated Patzer, explaining they were in use at the Windscape Kite Festival. "For the rest of the summer, you'll be able to see them under the big tent with some colonies and a lot of other great vendors who make it, bake it, or grow it.” 

The plaza was also packed with vendors who sold handmade wares, fashion, trinkets and more, with the City of Swift Current’s booth giving out free popcorn. In the background, voices and instruments brought the square to life. 

“Al Hudec, the music and entertainment coordinator for the summer lined up Glenna Switzer with her band to start off the morning and then in the afternoon, Glenna had some of her music students performing as well,” Patzer stated, “It was really cool to see some of the young performers who are working really hard coming up the ranks in Swift Current.” 

There are still vacant spots for vendors to join in the market, with an application form available any time on the City of Swift Current’s website.