When the Athens Farmers Market debuted on a summer day in 1972, three farmers arrived to hawk their locally grown produce.
Fast-forward 40 years, and today, it is the largest farmers market in Ohio, with 100 vendors attracting 1,500 to 3,000 people every Wednesday and Saturday.
The market will celebrate its anniversary June 9 and June 16 with a mayoral proclamation, local speakers, cooking demonstrations, giveaways and more, said Michelle Gorman, co-owner of Integration Acres farm and a promoter for the market.
“The Athens County community is lucky to have such a concentration of growers and producers,” Gorman said. “Our vendors offer not only fresh fruits and vegetables but also eggs, meats, cheeses, honey, maple syrup — the list goes on.”
Becky Rondy, co-owner of Green Edge Gardens, said she has loved her eight-year experience at the market and is excited about the upcoming anniversary.
“It is so humbling to be a part of an institution that has been a part of the Athens community for such a long time,” Rondy said. “To participate in a market that has sold fresh greens and other local products every week for 40 years is so gratifying.”
Farmers at the market are required to use ingredients found within a 150-mile radius of Athens, must raise their own agricultural products locally, or use local ingredients in any processed foods, said Kip Parker, market manager and treasurer.
There is a 20-person waitlist to join the market, Parker said.
“The college town environment of Athens is what makes this farmers market so unique,” Parker said. “Most people who live here have an awareness of healthy and locally produced food. At the end of the day, people have to eat, so many choose to support their local economy by buying at the Athens Farmers Market.”
Without the people and city of Athens, the Athens Farmers Market wouldn’t exist, said Larry Cowdery, Athens Farmers Marker President and owner of Cowdery Farms.
“This is the way other vendors and I make a living,” Cowdery said. “We are so appreciative of the people who come out every weekend and support us yearlong. The customers have allowed the Athens Farmers Market to celebrate this anniversary.”
Becky Maxson, a resident of Meigs County, said she frequents the market with her family every weekend.
“The Athens Farmers Market has a hometown, comfortable, welcoming feeling,” Maxson said. “I love coming here and always look forward to it. It has become part of my family’s and mine Saturday routine.”
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