Union Grove farmers market prepares to crop up
By Julie Rossman
Correspondent
With spring (sort of) in the air, the Union Grove farmers market committee is gearing up for another season at Union Grove’s Village Square Park.
Now in its third year, the farmers market features vendors selling farm-fresh produce, honey, cheese, meat, crafts and more.
Manager Teresa Holm said that while most of last year’s vendors are returning, new vendors are being welcomed, as well.
Walvoord Farm Berries, Kansasville, is the latest vendor to join the market and will feature fresh-picked strawberries in season.
“We’re growing,” said Holm “We have a good location and good shoppers who visit on a regular basis.”
Holm said the farmers market committee would love to add vendors who sell things like fresh-cut flowers, jams and jellies, soaps, spices and craft items.
In addition, the market is looking to add entertainment/background music and family fun activities like face painting.
The horticulture program at Shepherds College plans to make a return appearance at this year’s market.
Lead horticulture instructor, Leslie Leith, said students will attend about one-fourth of the markets, selling produce grown as part of their class work. Leith says the farmers market is a win-win for both the community and the college.
“Farmers markets benefit communities because they educate people by providing local food that is fresh, healthy and in season,” Leith said.
The college and students also benefit, according to Leith. “Being at the Farmers market promotes Shepherds College’s commitment to providing training to students with intellectual disabilities. It also demonstrates to the public that the students have many skills to offer as active members of the community.”
Vendors can register to attend all 22 weeks of the market season, or can pick and choose certain dates. The cost for a 10-foot by 10-foot space space is $200 for the entire season or $10 perweek.
The Union Grove farmers market season will run Tuesdays, May 21 through Oct. 15, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine. Vendors are asked to provide and use a 10-foot by 10-foot “EZ-UP” tent for their booth.
For more information about becoming a Union Grove Farmers Market vendor, visit www.uniongrovechamber.org or call the Chamber at (262) 878-4606.
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