As the excitement builds for the upcoming Farmers Market season in Excelsior Springs, Market Director Tammy Murphy has been hard at work since last fall’s closing market, ensuring a memorable and enriched experience for the community. The market is set to open on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, with several new features and programs that promise to delight and engage visitors of all ages.
One of the most significant changes this season is the introduction of two markets every Wednesday. The morning market will be held at the Excelsior Springs Community Center from 9:00 am to 11:30 am. The evening market will take place downtown at the Hitch Lot, located behind the 404 Company on Thompson Ave. This dual-market approach aims to provide more opportunities for residents to shop for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods.
Over 30 vendors are expected to participate, offering a wide variety of products, including numerous food items. This year, in addition to accepting WIC, the market will introduce the Missouri Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. This initiative provides low-income seniors (aged 60 and older) with $50 in seasonal benefits plus a $20 market match. These benefits can be exchanged for eligible foods at the market, including fruits, vegetables, honey, and cooking herbs. Seniors are encouraged to bring the required documentation to participate.
To make the market experience enjoyable for families, activities will be available weekly for kids. Thanks to Market Partners Jeff Hocker American Family and Laurie Gehrt, there will also be weekly raffle prizes, adding an element of excitement to each market day. Furthermore, a recent change in the Clay County Public Health Department policy now allows more food vendors to participate by adhering to the Missouri Cottage Food Law. Food trucks will be present at both morning and evening markets, ensuring a variety of delicious options for visitors.
The Farmers Market will actively participate in National Farmer’s Market Week (August 4-10) and America’s Farmland’s Trust contest, with voting starting on June 1, 2024. These events aim to celebrate and promote the importance of local farmers’ markets nationwide.
Community members can show their support by purchasing Farmers Market gear from local business Hustle + Heart. Available items include t-shirts, sweatshirts, towels, tote bags, and blankets featuring the market’s logo. These items are available for purchase until May 29th through Hustle + Heart’s online shop.
The market is dedicated to partnering with local businesses and organizations to give back to the community. On June 12th and October 9th, the market will support the Good Samaritan Center and Meet the Need. For every item needed by these organizations that is brought to the market, citizens will receive $1 in market bucks, with a maximum of $5 per family.
A new punch card will be given and those attending the evening market each week can get it punched and after 5 punches, they can put their card in the next drawing that will take place one or two times each month. If your name is drawn, you will win $5 in market bucks to spend at the market.
With these exciting developments and a strong commitment to community involvement, the Excelsior Springs Farmers Market is set to make this season the best yet. Be sure to join the fun starting June 5th and support local farmers and vendors while enjoying a fantastic market experience. The market is sponsored by the City of Excelsior Springs, Excelsior Springs Hospital, and the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce.
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