I know exactly what you mean! I stumbled on a small market in Courtenay a few months back while passing through and ended up staying for two hours chatting with vendors and sampling local honey. There’s something about the atmosphere that just feels more real, you know? If you’re looking to explore more markets or local events around BC, I usually check out bc local
— it's got updated listings and often highlights unique places you wouldn’t find otherwise. I’ve even planned a couple weekend trips based on what I found there.