The Bradford Farmers’ Market is set to return for its 17th season this May, with the potential to be bigger and better than ever.
Under the direction of new market manager Jennifer Bahinski, about 25 vendors are expected to be on hand offering a variety of local products, produce and fresh food in the parking lot of the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library at 425 Holland St. W., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday from May 18 to Oct. 12.
“The goal has always been to grow each year, and we have an amazing board of directors that are very supportive and it allowed me to do a lot of outreach this year,” Bahinski said of attracting additional artisans.
Those fresh faces are set to join plenty of returning regulars including Springh Farms, E.F.T. Farms, Pat’s Farms, Sweets n Bows by Jennifer, and From Lex’s Pantry — to name just a few.
“The goal of the market is to really just bring everyone together, share customers and bring success for everyone,” Bahinski said.
On top of that, one Saturday each month is set to act as a festival, including as many as 49 total vendors, plus Zumba, face painting, games, magicians and musicians, including: Jeremiah Hill, Farrucas Duo and Jessie Gosling.
“We’re definitely needing an expanded footprint, so we will be taking up more space in the parking lot, which is very exciting. I also feel that the growth will definitely draw in more customers, as each vendor has their own clientele that they regularly service,” Bahinski said.
Those festival days are scheduled to include:
- May 18 — Grand Opening
- June 29 — Pride Festival
- July 13 — Strawberry Festival
- Aug. 10 — Peach Festival
- Sept. 14 — Family Festival
- Oct. 12 — Harvest Festival
That’s not all though, as the market is also planned to feature community groups such as Parents Against Racism Simcoe County and TNO — The Neighbourhood Organization, as well as help charities including Matthews House Hospice.
“I really wanted to support that goal for growth for this season, so I tried to reach out to as many people as possible, and make each day an event in itself. Not just the festival dates, but every day is a good day to come out,” Bahinski said.
For more information or a full list of vendors, visit the market’s website, bradfordfarmersmarket.ca, or follow it on Facebook or Instagram.
