Debbie Bearden likes nothing better than talking about the local farmers market — and there’s a lot to talk about this year.
The market, sponsored by Allen County Farm Bureau and Thrive Allen County, starts a 26-week run in its third year on the southwest side of the Allen County Courthouse square Thursday evening. The market will be open 5:30 to 7 p.m., with closing time moving to 7:30 after Memorial Day.
“We averaged 23 to 25 vendors last year, about 10 fewer than 2010 because of the extremely hot and dry weather. With the space we have available this year, we could accommodate 45 or 46.”
Ten have signed on for all season, at a cost of $40. Bearden anticipates others to forego the $5 a week space rent and take advantage of the cheaper season rate.
Julie Aubert, a market regular, said she and her mother, Virginia Aubert, would have fresh and dried herbs, starter plants for tomatoes, peppers and pansies, as well as well baked goods, homemade lollipops and brittle candy for sale at the opener. They also specialize in quilted items and other crafty things.
Aubert also maintains a Facebook presence for the farmers market and does a periodic newsletter.
Not a great deal of garden produce will be available Thursday evening, even though unusually warm weather coupled with ample rainfall have put early gardens ahead of schedule.
“I imagine we’ll have spinach, radishes, rhubarb and asparagus for opening night,” Bearden said.
Not having a full range of garden produce won’t diminish the go-to-market experience for shoppers.
Bearden said eggs and chickens (fresh-frozen) will be offered, along with all sorts of baked goods, herbs and spices, soap, yarn, jellies and jams and garden and flower transplants and crafts.
NEW THIS year will be cooking demonstrations by local chefs.
Nic Lohman will kick off the first demonstration on May 31, followed by others on June 14, July 12, Aug. 16, Sept. 13 and Oct. 11.
Those who wish to share their culinary skills may call Bearden at 365-2172.
On May 10 Krista Harding, a Southwind Extension Service specialist, will be on hand with several master gardeners to give free instruction.
