25 Apr Ti Area Farmers Market Plans For 2019
The Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce announces the 2019 season for the Farmers Market, opening on July 6th and running through September 28th. The market operates on Saturdays from 10AM to 1PM at Wicker Wood (1114 Wicker Street) near the Walmart entrance and across from Christopher Chevrolet Buick.
“With the signs of spring upon us, the longer days and the stronger sun, farmers are busy at work preparing for the season”, stated June Curtis, Market Advisor. “Maple sugaring has kicked off the first harvest of the year. The birthing season has beckoned for our animal farmers whose barns are filling with calves, piglets and baby goats. Seeds have arrived and green house planting has begun for fruit and vegetable producers. These are the farmers you will find at our Farmers Market, where they sell their local farm fresh products directly to the consumer.”
Just as the farmers are preparing, likewise the farmers market committee is busy shaping the market season. Special events are known to generate excitement, increase attendance and help to develop strong community support for farmers markets.
Three special events are scheduled for the third Saturday in July, August and September. July 20th will be the Grand Opening celebration with entertainment by the ever-popular Sometimes Three consisting of Jessica Stoddard, Lance Clark and Mike Donahue. Friends of the Market Festival on August 17th will feature the Just Passin’ Thru Band. In September the Harvest Festival will welcome back the Loose Monkeys. Additional vendors will participate and kids activities will be offered. The committee is working with the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to set up refreshment stands for these three events. The season is shaping up to be fantastic, one of the best yet.
The Ticonderoga Area Farmers Market is a certified farmers markets which has market rules that define who can sell and what can be sold at the market. There is an application process to accept new and returning vendors and advisors available to answer general inquiries and assist with the necessary paperwork should a vendor wish to certify with NYS Agriculture and Markets to be able to participate in the coupon programs.
“This will be our 5th year operating a certified Farmers Market at Wicker Wood”, offered Matt Courtright. The site has worked well for us with grassy lawn space enjoyed by the vendors, entertainment space in the shade and plenty of parking in the rear parking area. I need to emphasize for those who may be unaware, there is safe access one-way in and one-way out. Parking is available for seniors and those with special needs in front of the garage and general parking in the rear and along the exit roadway. Our goal is to make the market accessible, providing an enjoyable experience for everyone.”
The Ticonderoga Area Farmers Market is now recruiting farmers and vendors for the 2019 season, special events, etc.
“If you produce a quality food product that is locally grown, farm raised or handmade featuring local materials, you may be interested in participating in the Farmers Market,” said Market Advisor June Curtis. “Farmers are required to grow 50 percent of the fruits and vegetables they offer. All products must be local (produced within a 100 mile radius of Ticonderoga including Vermont). The market welcomes vendors who offer original goods that complement farmers’ products. If you are hesitant to commit to the full season, a flexible schedule is readily offered to encourage participation.”
For further information, please contact the Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce at 518 585-6619 or visit www.ticonderogany.com.