Roger Mayhew of Mayhew Family Farm sells his fresh produce to a customer at the Pontiac Farmer’s Market on opening day.
Bonnie Zimmerling
Roger Mayhew of Mayhew Family Farm sells his fresh produce to a customer at the Pontiac Farmer’s Market on opening day.
Bonnie Zimmerling
SHAWVILLE – The Pontiac Farmer’s Market opened for another season, May 17. Held at the Shawville Fair Grounds, the market is open from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm each Saturday with the exception of the Shawville Fair weekend when they set up in another location in town. During the months of July and August, the market will also be open Wednesday afternoons, with the hours of operation yet to be determined. Starting opening day, the market will have at least 10 vendors selling everything from fresh seasonal vegetables, flowers, micro greens, crafts and jewellery to woodcrafts and baked goods.
The market, which has been in operation for 22 years, starts the long weekend in May and runs until Thanksgiving weekend every year. This year, the market will be moving into the ‘Exhibition Hall’ on the fair grounds. Ron Hodgins, who helps organize the market, says moving into the bigger building provides more space for people wanting to sell household items, clothing, toys, etc., and gives the area more of a flea market type feel. The Farmer’s Market is also a good place for those wishing to hold a garage sale without having to worry about the weather. Tables are available or people can bring their own.
Several livestock sales and theme-based yard sales are planned for the season, with the first livestock sale, called the “Spring Buy-Sell Day,” being held June 7. Chickens, peacocks, rabbits, quail, ducks and other small farm animals as well as small animal cages and incubators will be some of the items available for purchase. The sale of domestic pets, such as cats or dogs, are not allowed at the sale and there will be a small $3 fee for sellers.
The market gives visitors the opportunity to pick up a complete meal of local, fresh produce and baked goods in one location. Fresh coffee and treats are offered each Saturday, and customer appreciation draws are held throughout the season; all great reasons to stop by and support the local farmers, bakers and crafters.
New vendors can contact Inger Elliott at 647-2322 or Ron Hodgins at 647-6001. Tables can be rented for $20 a day or by the season for $110.
