The Westfield Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday from 12n-6pm on the lawn of the Church of the Atonement on Court St. in Westfield (Photo courtesy Danny Nason).
WESTFIELD-The Westfield Farmers’ Market opens for its third season as an outreach project of the Episcopal Church of the Atonement on June 1.
The market will run every Thursday, rain or shine, from noon to 6 p.m. on the lawn of the church at the corner of Court and Pleasant streets.
On June 1, a brief opening ceremony will take place at noon, featuring musician Ed Bentley who will play his original Farmers’ Market Song created for the Westfield Farmers’ Market. Bentley will also perform from noon to 2 p.m., followed by Eva Cappelli from 2 to 4 p.m., and Gary Kotros from 4 to 6 p.m. At 3 p.m., chef Frank Baldwin of Pancake Sundaes on North Elm Street will demonstrate how to make a hollandaise sauce. Also, vendor Carmel Ann Lariviere is donating a welcome back gift basket to be raffled off.
“Since it opened two years ago with seven vendors, the market has grown to nearly 40 vendors, including farmers who sell locally grown produce, and those who use agricultural products to make jams, jellies, relishes, breads, cheeses, sandwiches, soaps, oils, seasonings, Italian gelato, hot doughnuts and pretzels,” said Debbie Randzio, market manager.
In addition, Randzio notes there are crafts made from natural products, as well as nonprofit organizations and businesses distributing information about healthy lifestyles.
Free parking and a playground are available, and the building is ADA accessible.
“The market will continue to feature local chefs offering cooking demonstrations and live music performed by local musicians sponsored by a grant from the Westfield and Massachusetts Cultural Councils,” said Randzio.
Also, SNAP customers will be able to receive limited matching funds returned to their EBT cards with purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables from qualified vendors through the Healthy Incentive Program, administered through the state Department of Transitional Assistance.
“Some vendors will also be able to accept WIC and FMNSP programs,” said Randzio.
The Loyalty Card Program will continue with customers who return to the market six times being eligible for a drawing for a free gift.
For more information, visit westfieldfarmersmarket.net.
