The pandemic is not diminishing the importance of the Rainy Lake Square in Fort Frances.
The Square managed to operate weekly markets this summer according to public health guidelines.
Economic Development Consultant Tannis Drysdale says it turned out to be one of the most successful years ever.
“Where to the point this year we were actually having to turn away potential vendors for the first time in the three years that we’ve run the Square. In a different year, we wouldn’t have had to turn them away, but for distancing purposes, we did that,” says Drysdale.
Only three vendors started the year, but as many as 20 took part by season’s end.
They ranged from established farmers and growers, artisans, musicians, charity fundraisers and children’s stands.
The Square also saw businesses and vendors from places like Kenora and Thunder Bay, where restrictions preventing them from marketing in their own areas.
Drysdale says they continue to work towards market the Square as a place for local people to visit, but also a tourist attraction.
“So not only does the market serve as a wealth circulation center, it serves as a wealth generation centre, meaning it’s bringing new money into our district from International Falls and other places like that.”
The Rainy Lake Square also became a shared space this year for local restaurants to use during the mid-stage of the COVID recovery.
