METUCHEN — The Metuchen Farmers Market is open for its 21st season.
Every Saturday, summer into fall, the Metuchen Farmers Market transforms the Metuchen Senior Center parking lot on the corner of New and Center streets, into a haven of local flavor and camaraderie.
“The nicest thing about the market is the sense of community it fosters” said Nelson Li, market manager. “Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, we’ve really expanded the market over the years and we’d like to continue growing and adding value to the community.”
The market opened on June 17 with about 15 local farmers and artisans on hand.
For opening day vendors offered fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs; local grass-fed meats; and a variety of cheese, locally-sourced fish, eggs, flowers, pickles, olives, coffee and baked goods, honey, flowers, chutneys, granola; nuts and dried fruit and artisanal foods.
New vendors include Chickadee Creek Farm, a certified organic and certified transitional organic vegetable, flower and herb farm; and MahA Premium Granola, makers of handmade, locally-sourced, GMO-free, gourmet granola and Cai’s Café bringing along breakfast pastries and fresh coffee.
Vendors Hoboken Farm Stand and Von Thun’s Farms are returning for another season.
“We are equally thrilled to have our newcomers and our tried-and-true favorites be part the Metuchen Farmers Market family,” Li said.
The Metuchen Farmers Market has been in existence since 1997 and has grown from a few farmers to more than a dozen top-notch vendors. The market, presented by the Metuchen Area Chamber of Commerce, hosts four “Jersey Fresh” farmers and other food-first vendors offering cheese, pickles, olives, fresh-baked breads, mozzarella, gluten-free granola, dried fruits/nuts, grass-fed meats, free-range eggs, locally-sourced fish, farmhouse-baked pies and more.
To see a complete list of market participants and/or interested in volunteering, visit metuchenfarmersmarket.com. For anyone interested in becoming a vendor, contact Nelson Li at metuchenfarmersmarket@gmail.com.
The market offers farm-fresh produce, gourmet foods and hand-crafted items on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through November 18th, rain or shine
