Farmer’s Market Has a Successful Kick-off

“The weather might have been a little cold and windy but we had a great kick off for the Liberal Farmer’s Market,” Market Manager Julie Bunnell. “It’s a little early for produce but Busy Bee Farms did a sellout business of its hydroponically grown tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and Swiss chard and also had a great assortment of plants to buy.”

There were 13 vendors for the first market and the most of the home-baked pies, cinnamon rolls and breads also sold out. “We were happy with the assortment of items available and think we have a great basis for this to grow.” Bunnell said she also liked the fact that for many of the vendors, it was a family affair. "We had kids and grandkids helping out and it really made the market fun."

The Farmer’s Market, now sponsored by the Liberal Area Coalition for Families, has moved to the parking lot in the Village Plaza, in front of Spencer Browne’s Coffee House. “We wanted a location that was much more visible and we appreciate the Village Plaza management providing us with such a great area.”

Marley Betzold wrote on the Farmer’s Market in Liberal, KS Facebook page, “ Checked it out this morning. I LOVE IT. Will be going back every week. Found an awesome woven market basket. Homemade pies,crafts, vegtables and all kinds of baked goods. Exactly what we need here in Liberal. Thank you .”

The Liberal Area Coalition for Families received a grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that is supporting the revitalization of the Farmer’s market with funds for a manager, advertising and supplies. The Coalition is now looking for ways to sustain the market for next year.

“We know there is tremendous interest in having a Farmer’s Market but we will need vendors every week to make it successful,” Bunnell said.

It only costs $10 for one Saturday or $50 for the whole season which will last into mid-October depending on the weather. Vendors must provide their own table, chairs, and shade or can sell out of a vehicle. The market will start at 8 a.m. every Saturday morning and vendors must be on site by 7:30 a.m. but are not allowed to start selling until the official opening. The market will be open until noon or until sold out.

For more information about the Liberal Farmer’s Market, go to the website, www.farmersmarketlk.com, the Facebook page, Farmer’s Market in Liberal, KS, or contact Bunnell at 620-391-2252, or [email protected].