The Homegrown Farmer’s Market is in full swing in its usual spot on Langdon Crescent, and board member Diane Kramski said attendance has been great so far.
“It's been an increase [in traffic from last year],” said Kramski. “I can’t believe how busy it was at the last two markets.”
The market began on May 29 to great reception, featuring plenty of handmade and homegrown goods from vendors and small businesses in the local area. Market regulars will recognize many of the vendors, said Kramski, as well as enjoy exploring new ones.
“We’ve got a few new vendors, [like] freeze-dried food. We have vegetables, jewelry, crafts, a lot of jams and jellies and preserves, homemade baking and bread, a woodworker who does puzzles and another that does beautiful furniture and birdhouses, raw honey,” said Kramski.
About 24 vendors applied to take part in the outdoor market this year, and Kramski said that more may be welcomed later this summer if public health measures continue to loosen.
For now, COVID-19 guidelines are strictly in place for market-goers and merchants. Physical distancing is strongly recommended, and the Farmer’s Market is discouraging attendees from bringing their own reusable bags.
Eating is currently not allowed within the market and vendors are still taking sanitation precautions with their goods, like individual packaging, a “do not touch” rule and offering hand sanitizer to patrons.
Live music has also returned to the morning markets this year, provided by local musicians on the dates of their choice, but the Wednesday night markets are on hold until next year.
But, said Kramski, the overall magic of the Farmer's Market is still alive and organizers are hoping to see lots of interest in the popular event throughout the summer.
The Homegrown Farmer’s Market takes place every Saturday morning, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., until Thanksgiving Weekend.
