Melrose Farmers’ Market Celebrates 30 Years with a Big Opening Week

The Melrose Farmers’ Market will be celebrating its 30th year this summer, kicking off the season with a guest bartending night on June 3rd at Giacomo’s. Come join us for cocktails made by guest bartenders Kristen Schreck, Market Executive Director, and Board Members Julie Unger and Olivia Wilkins, to learn more about the Market and help us fundraise to support our Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) match, “music at the market”, and children’s programming.

On June 6th at 1pm, the Market will officially open with Mayor Jen Grigoraitis ringing the opening bell. Every Thursday through October 31st (except July 4th) the Market will run from 1-6pm and feature fresh, local produce, fish, meats, poultry, and eggs. Shoppers will also be able to purchase prepared foods, locally produced spreads, sweet and savory preserves, baked goods (including allergy-friendly items), teas, personal care products, creative gifts from local artisans, and more. We will have many of our favorite vendors returning, as well as a few new ones!

Bring your picnic blanket, enjoy children’s activities from 3-4pm, and stay for live music from 4-6pm. Special event days with coordinating activities this year include: 6/27 Pride Day; 7/18 Family Day; 8/8 National Farmers' Market Day; 8/22 Dog Days of Summer; 9/5 Senior Day, and 10/31 Halloween Parade.

Thanks to generous donations and grants, the Market matches Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) dollars. SNAP recipients should bring their EBT cards to the Market table to receive up to a $10 match. Using Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) benefits, SNAP shoppers are also able to get $40-$80 per month back on their EBT cards for purchasing fresh produce from Dick’s Market Garden, Moonlight Farm, and Oakdale Farm (amount varies based on household size).

Volunteers are always welcome at the Market. Activities include setting up, directing vendors to their correct spots, assisting shoppers, counting visitors, and breaking down the market. We also appreciate help with marketing, fundraising, and planning events.

To donate, volunteer, or learn more about our vendors, please go to www.melrosefarmersmarket.org. We are located at Bowden Park, on West Emerson and Vinton Streets, across from the Cedar Park commuter rail station. Free parking is available at the Cedar Park Commuter Rail Stop and surrounding neighborhood streets, but we encourage you to walk or bike. We hope to see you for opening day!