Granville Island
In the 1970’s, Granville Island began its successful transformation from an industrial wasteland to the first Farmer’s Market in Vancouver and one of the most beloved public spaces in Vancouver.
The Public Market attracts local chefs, serious foodies and is a locals haunt for the freshest produce, fish and unique food ingredients, and with 11 restaurants, bars, distilleries, and Canada’s first micro brewery, and 7 theatres and performance venues, and over 30 festivals each year, Granville Island is also Vancouver’s premier artistic and cultural hub.
Located in an urban, waterfront location and steeped in a rich industrial and maritime heritage, this unique destination operates in a not-for-profit model, receiving no funding from any level of government, or grants.
Opened as a public market for locals, the “island is also home to over 300 artists, artisans and small manufacturers and attracts millions of visitors each year from Vancouver and around the world.
The charm of Granville Island lies in its unexpected mix of uses. The famous Public Market, open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, is home to more than 50 independent food purveyors and contributes to the Island’s appeal as a renowned culinary destination. In the Net Loft Shops and in the Artisan District, many of Canada’s best artists and designers can be found. Granville Island is home to many cultural venues and hosts numerous performing arts and cultural festivals year-round.
Operationally self-sustaining, Granville Island is home to more than 300 businesses employing more than 3,000 people.
