An amazing Farmers Market season finished on October 3. Many other markets chose to cancel this year or scale way back with either drive-thru markets or pre-order. With the support of our vendors, the Town, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture and our customers, we made the decision to go ahead using social distancing and enhanced sanitation procedures. The turnout, sales and enthusiasm proved that we made the right choice. Of the 16 weeks that were scheduled, only two were canceled due to severe weather (one turned out to be a false alarm!!)
We have many vendors who have been with us for years and keep customers coming back. Our returning vendors Cupola Hollow, Merry Mite Wild Gardens, Easy Pickins, Maplewood Farms, Simpaug Farms, Bielonko Farms, Things by Jeannie, Kate Evans, Julie the Garden Fairy and the 350th Committee were joined by this year’s new vendors. Mosher Farms and Lefcheck Farm joined us every week and have earned their own loyal following. Driving for a Cure joined us for a few Saturdays, as did Stoecker Farm and Agriscience Student Nate Fabrizzi. We often encourage non-profits to join us, but this year that was complicated by the Covid-19 concerns.
On September 26, “The Pierogi Queen,” who served up their wonderful Polish fare, enjoyed an enthusiastic response. They are hoping to be a regular vendor next season. Another successful offering at the Market was the sale of beautiful and functional cloth masks made and donated by Brenda Gardner (she made hundreds!), Sharon Kozaczka and Gwen Gorski to benefit Suffield Community Aid. A total of $2,420 was raised 100% of which went to SCA.
We look forward to building on the momentum of this year’s success next summer! Thanks to all for making this a great season.
Check out our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/SuffieldFarmersMarket with photos and live stream posts from the season, or our web page: www.suffieldct.gov/farms.