Organic, open-air, and effortlessly elegant: new market in F-7 earns glowing praise

ISLAMABAD: Fresh produce, open skies and a refined weekend vibe came together as the Capital Development Authority (CDA) unveiled a new organic community market at F-7 Park, adding a polished new chapter to Islamabad’s growing wellness scene.

While the city has long enjoyed the popular farmers’ market that introduced residents to farm-fresh shopping, the F-7 initiative brings the concept into a public park setting, blending healthy living with leisure and community spirit.

The park took on the look of a boutique, open-air bazaar, drawing families, walkers, and seniors eager to enjoy a relaxed yet upscale shopping experience. Tastefully arranged stalls offered chemical-free fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, homemade bakery items and gourmet treats, all framed by greenery and subtle background music.

Many visitors described the market as less of an errand and more of a lifestyle outing. “It feels elegant but still very accessible,” said local resident Ayesha Khan. “You’re buying clean food, enjoying the weather, and spending quality time, all in one place.”

Around 20 carefully selected vendors interacted directly with shoppers, answering questions about sourcing and preparation, a feature long appreciated at Islamabad’s established farmers’ market and now echoed in this new format. The personal connection gave the event a curated, high-end feel and reinforced trust in the quality on offer. “Knowing where your food comes from makes all the difference,” said visitor Muhammad Usman, who hoped similar markets would be introduced in other sectors.

Families praised the thoughtful planning, particularly child-friendly activities that allowed parents to browse in comfort. A calm atmosphere, strict zero-littering policy and smooth organization added to the market’s appeal, setting it apart from traditional crowded bazaars. “It’s clean, peaceful and very well managed,” said Sara Malik. “This is how public spaces should be used.”

Officials credited the initiative to a growing awareness around wellness and shared community spaces. Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation Chief Officer Dr Anam Fatima said the response showed strong public demand for healthier lifestyle options, while CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa noted that the authority aims to build on the success of both the city’s existing farmers’ market and this new organic park-based model by expanding such initiatives across Islamabad.

With its graceful setting and warm public response, the F-7 organic community market has elevated the idea of weekend shopping, where fresh food, thoughtful planning and understated luxury come together in the heart of the capital.