Chester Sunday Market Returns June 14
Main Street in Chester is once again abuzz with the goings on of the famed Sunday Farmer’s Market. The market season officially began June 14 and runs until Oct. 11. Market Manager Sue Hotkowski promises the return of everything visitors loved from previous years, plus some new attractions.
“We will have all our regular vendors back again this year, as well as a new vendor, Sage Hill Farm from Oakdale, who will be bringing fresh produce, jams, and jellies. We will also have our usual weekly music entertainment and the very popular bistro area,” Hotkowski said.
The market, which started in the late ’90s, has grown immensely in popularity over the years. Not only does it offer guest a comprehensive array of fresh, locally grown goods, but it’s a destination spot for Sunday morning relaxing, promoting a pet- and kid-friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
“Our market is much more than just an offering of goods, it is a weekly event that people come from all over to enjoy,” said Hotkowski. “Frank Andrews Mobile Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch pizza weekly and all the downtown restaurants are open, like the River Tavern, Simon’s, The Villager, and more. People can order a bite, and then sit at the bistro and enjoy the music. It really is a good time for everyone.”
The market is held weekly from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Main Street is shut down from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. however, there are nearby public parking areas on Water Street and at the Maple Street commuter lot.
With more than 20 participating vendors, this market has it all from bread to pizza to fresh produce, organic poultry, fresh eggs, homemade jams and jellies, fresh seafood, and locally grown mushrooms.
The Chester Farmers Market features only Connecticut-grown agriculture, locally produced food, and regionally made goods.
In addition to vendor offerings, each week the market highlights a merchant of the week, which is listed ahead of time on the market’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/chestersundaymarket and website http://chestersundaymarket.jimdo.com. The market also offers the use of a community tent, for non-profits to come and make use of, to get the word out about their programs and organizations.
“We supply everything for this tent free of charge, the chairs, tables, and anything these organizations may need, we just ask that the organization be something that is local to, or serves, the three towns of Chester, Deep River, and Essex,” said Hotkowski.
For more information, and to get a preview of what will be at the Chester Farmer’s Market weekly, visit http://chestersundaymarket.jimdo.com.