With 21 vendors and a steady stream of visitors, organizers of the Washington Farmers’ Market said this year’s opening was strong.
The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce runs the market.
“We had a really successful opening. We were very pleased,” said Amanda Griesheimer, Chamber assistant. “We’ve gotten good feedback so far.”
The covered market, at 317 W. Main St. in Downtown Washington, opened Saturday, April 7.
This year, opening day featured a small ceremony with the pledge of allegiance and flag posting, led by Washington Mayor Sandy Lucy.
“The managers blew the whistle and everyone cheered and ran to their favorite vendor with money in hand,” Griesheimer said.
A flower planting craft also was available for children.
Griesheimer said vendors and customers seemed excited that the market was open again.
“I know everyone was thrilled that the market was opening back up for the season. Everyone says the market is kind of like a family reunion between the vendors themselves and the customers,” Griesheimer said.
“It’s neat to be able to go to the market to get the things that you want and need, but it’s also a social experience to talk to vendors and visit with everyone,” she added.
Bob and Pat’s BBQ grilled at the opening and musical entertainment was provided by Greg Krone and Wayne Roy.
Griesheimer said she still hopes to get more produce vendors as well as one or two meat vendors.
She noted that if visitors came and didn’t see what they were looking for, they should stop back by throughout the growing season as more produce will be coming in.
The market is open Saturdays through Oct. 27, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market also will be open Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. from May 2 through Oct. 31.
In November and December, the market will be open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Farmers’ Market has a website with vendor listings at Washmomarket.weebly.com. It can be found on Facebook at facebook.com/washmofarmersmarket. A blog written by the vendors is at www.washingtonmofarmersmarket.blogspot.com.
For more information about the Washington Farmers’ Market or for information about permits, people may contact the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce, 636-239-2715.
