‘Very exciting’: Bradford Farmers’ Market to return on May 18

The Bradford Farmers’ Market will return for its 17th year^th season in 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 offer a variety of local produce, produce and fresh foods in the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library parking lot at 425 Holland St. W., from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every Saturday from May 18 to October 12.

“The goal has always been to grow every year, and we have an amazing board of directors that is very supportive and has allowed me to do a lot of things this year,” Bahinski said of bringing in additional artisans.

These fresh faces are set to join many regulars including Springh Farms, EFT Farms, Pat’s Farms, Jennifer’s Sweets n Bows and From Lex’s Pantry – just to name a few.

“The purpose of the marketplace is to bring everyone together, share customers and bring success to everyone,” Bahinski said.

Additionally, one Saturday each month will act as a festival, featuring up to 49 vendors in total, plus Zumba, face painting, games, magicians and musicians including: Jeremiah Hill, Farrucas Duo and Jessie Gosling.

“We definitely need an expanded footprint, so we’ll be taking up more parking space, which is really exciting. I also feel that the increase will definitely attract more customers as each vendor has their own clientele that they serve on a regular basis,” said Bahinski.

These festival days are scheduled to include:

• May 18 — Grand Opening
• June 29 — Pride Festival
• July 13 — Strawberry Festival
• August 10 — Peach Festival
• September 14 — Family Festival
• October 12 — Harvest Festival

That’s not all, though, as the market is also planned to include community groups like Parents Against Racism Simcoe County and TNO — The Neighborhood Organization, as well as charities including Matthews House Hospice.

“I really wanted to support this growth goal for this season, so I tried to reach as many people as possible and make every day an event in itself. Not just the festival dates, but every day is a good day to go out,” Bahinski said.

For more information or a full list of vendors, visit the market’s website, bradfordfarmersmarket.ca or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.