Continuing on Saturdays along Cherry street between Second and Third streets in downtown Jamestown, the Public Market will run later in the day this season, open from 10am to 2 pm. A recent recipient of the USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program grant, the public market is once again partnering with Univera Healthcare to sponsor a variety of fun and unique events.
Public Market Manager Linnea Carlson is thrilled to be a part of the market’s ‘renaissance’ season. “We are excited to utilize the funding we were fortunate to receive through the USDA, and our sponsorship partners, to expand our programming and educational opportunities. The past four months have been spent planning an exciting season dedicated to our local community. Our 2018 lineup includes LEGO STEM activities, a community pig roast, local wine and craft brew tastings, a soup contest, and our annual 1k Kids Run. We want the Public Market to be so much more than a retail venue, but rather a celebration of our farmers and a gathering space for community members of all ages and interests. ”
Located along the Pearl City Arts building, the market is proud to highlight local food, wellness, and retail related businesses. “The community has really come together to create an exciting market event each Saturday. Local business owners have been nothing but supportive, and we hope to continue to showcase all that downtown Jamestown has to offer. We need individuals and families to attend each week, shop local and support our community”, said Carlson.
The Jamestown Public Market will feature free live entertainment from local musicians and community groups, along with outdoor seating and prepared food offerings. The market has also partnered with various community organizations to highlight local programs. Organizations that will be offering activities and information throughout the season include the YWCA, the Chautauqua ASPCA, the Audubon Community Nature Center, Roger Tory Peterson Institute, New Directions Youth and Family Services, Chautauqua Alcohol and Substance Abuse Coalition (CASAC) and JamestownNY Rocks.
In addition to community organization spotlights, the 2018 market will also premiere the Jamestown Public Market ‘SPROUTS’ Club, free weekly children’s activities and educational opportunities. Sponsored by Jamestown Pediatric Associates, all children who participate in market activities will receive a $2 voucher that can be spent on fresh fruits and vegetables. Children won’t be the only ones who have the chance to learn while at the market; cooking demonstrations featuring market products will be featured, hosted by passionate ‘foodies’ of the area. Eat Smart NY will also continue to offer community food tastings.
Opening day events include a 10:30 children’s story-time, celebration of ‘World Knitting in Public Day’ in partnership with the Mental Health Association’s Knitting for Wellbeing Group, and live music by Russel & Hamels. A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place at 11 AM to celebrate the market’s USDA funding. Chautauqua County Executive George Borello and Senator Cathy Young plan to be in attendance.
Events and programming scheduled for the 2018 season have been based on community feedback and an effort to expand market offerings. Featured vendors include Abers Acres, Scott’s Farm & Greenhouse, Hidden Valley Produce, Alpacaville, Becki’s Bakery, Eden’s Herbs, The Biodome Project, Gardens of Eternity, and For Peate’s Sake Homestead. The market continues to offer organic produce, locally grown fruits and vegetables, locally raised meat products, artisan goods, homemade baked goods, local honey, handmade soap products and much more.
The Jamestown Public Market accepts EBT, credit and debit. More information on nutrition benefits can be found at the Market information tent. For those interested in vending, contact Carlson at 716-489-3497 or email linnea@jamestownrenaissance.org. For additional information on all market events visit jamestownrenaissance.org or the Jamestown Public Market Facebook page.