By Kristin Boza∼
The 95th Street Farmers Market is better than ever. Dedicated to making the Farmers Market a Sunday destination, organizers have included entertainment, kids activities and more food options to keep everyone of every age happy while shopping for local produce. The Farmers Market is every Sunday through Oct. 30, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the commuter lot on 95th and Longwood Dr.
The Farmers Market is overseen by the 95th Street Business Association and its executive director, Erin Ross. This year, it’s sponsored by Beverly Bank & Trust, which allows for more entertainment and amenities to be added, according to Ross. An anonymous donor is helping to fund activities and promotions at the market.
Reusable tote bags with the farmers market logo are available for $10 at the market.
Besides the entertainment expansion, the Farmers Market brings awareness to community organizations. “We really wanted to find a way to highlight some of the community organizations that people may not be aware of, so we invited some of them to join us at the market,” Ross said. “We’re trying to help these groups spread more information about what they’re doing, and maybe people will find a cause and help volunteer with that organization.”
Organizations to be featured in June include the Kellogg School Garden Club, Go19, which will host a bike valet service, and One Tail At A Time, a dog rescue organization.
Also new this year is a focus on family. “We added face painters, a craft table, and more food options to appeal to a variety of people,” Ross said. In addition to the fan-favorite taco cart, Gotta Be Crepes will be there making their signature dish.
Ross is excited about the positive community feedback for the market. “We really want to make this a fun destination for the neighborhood,” she said.
The Uprising Craft Handmade Market, part of the Beverly Area Arts Alliance, will make an appearance once a month to sell handmade items, including jewelry, paintings and pottery.
“My intention is to make this an eclectic mix each time,” said Jane Zia, Uprising organizer and owner of Our Secret Garden, specializing in handcrafted soap and lotion products. “We’ll have these mini-markets at the farmers market, and still plan to have the larger market in conjunction with the Beverly Art Walk and our biannual markets at Blue Island Beer Company. Not only are we looking to add more variety, but we’re also looking to enhance the experience.”
“I’m excited to see the market grow and become a meeting place for everyone in the community. You see so many of your neighbors and friends; it’s definitely strengthening our community,” Zia said. “Come by to plan your weekly dinners, pick up groceries and enjoy free activities for your kids.”
June Farmers Market Activities
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June 5: Entertainment by The Beverly All Stars
June 12: Entertainment by Joel Barr; Kellogg School Garden Club will sell lemonade and mint plants
June 19: Entertainment by Mark Taylor; Uprising Handmade Market featuring sculptural and functional clay works by Dan of Running Dog Pottery, unique beaded and metal-smithed jewelry by Nicold of Twentythou, handcrafted stationary by Eloisa of Loi Designs; Go19 will host a bike valet, but would like to continue throughout the season. To volunteer, contact Lizzy Benner at lizzybenner@gmail.com.
June 26: Entertainment by Trance Gender; One Tail At A Time, a Chicago-based dog rescue will share information about adoption and foster opportunities.
PHOTOS BY REBECCA HEALY
