By Rori Bennett – Junior Reporter
The first of nine installments for the 2020 Wallaceburg Farmers’ Market was held on Saturday, June 20, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the municipal parking lot on James Street.
Organizers say approximately 700 people visited the first market of the season.
“We were a bit nervous of how things would go at our first market during the pandemic, but it was great,” said Bethany Paehr of Black Dog Garlic, one of the vendors on Saturday.
“People were respectful of social distancing and excited for fresh produce.”
Paehr added garlic is their number one crop.
“But we do other things that we hope to feature in future markets,” she told the Sydenham Current.
“We are happy to take part in the Wallaceburg Farmers’ Market and belong to a group of farmers in Chatham-Kent, taking pride in providing the best local produce.”
The markets in Wallaceburg this year are scheduled to be held biweekly on Saturdays, with the final market being held Saturday, October 10, 2020.
The major sponsor this year is Acres Unlimited Inc.
On Saturday. the market vendors were selling a variety of goods, including seasonal produce, baked goods, honey, jams, and many other artisan products.
The vendors, included: A Childs Homestead, Black Dog Garlic, Country Market Garden, J & R Fresh Market, Long Creek Farms, Sycamore Farm Market, The Baker’s Affair, The Potting Shed, The Village Cannery, Tickled Pink Bath Bombs, Williamson Farms and Parks Blueberries.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, various social distancing measures were enforced. Additionally, hand sanitizer was provided and the wearing of masks was encouraged.
A complete list of safety precautions, as outlined by the Farmers’ Market committee, can be found on their Facebook page, here.
The next Wallaceburg Farmers’ Market is scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2020.
Here are some more photos from the event:
