The second annual Backyard Market is returning to Valley Axe in Sarnia.
Girl Gang is organizing a small business and vendor event to take place this weekend.
The first Backyard Market was held in 2021. Girl Gang Co-Founder Jenni Bourque said it was very well received and they had great feedback to help plan this year's event.
"Last year was amazing! We got a ton of positive feedback from the vendors themselves to tighten up organization. There was a bit of noise so we've made sure this year that the generators from the food trucks aren't there, and if so, they're parking at the very back of the event. We're going to have a food section."
Bourque said they're expecting about 30 per cent more vendors than last year. So far, more than 85 vendors have signed on.
The 2021 Backyard Market. (Photo courtesy of Jenni Bourque)
Aside from the food section, there will also be a beer garden, an area for family-fun activities, and a section for dogs.
About $6,000 was raised for the Women’s Interval Home of Sarnia-Lambton last year.
This year's event is aimed at raising awareness and funds for the Indigenous Outdoor Space at Lambton College and Diversity Ed.
"We have connected with [Diversity Ed Executive Director Crystal Fach] and they're going to be coming for a pronoun training [session]. We're also going to be supporting some of our local drag performers," said Bourque. "There's going to be a lot happening and there's going to be a lot of ways you can donate in-person and online by signing up to our email list."
A schedule of events planned for August 13-14 and a list of vendors can be found on the Girl Gang's website.
The Backyard Market will run from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. both days at Valley Axe, which is located on London Line.