The Canton Farmers Market will start its regular season under the direction of Amanda Campana, the newly hired Farmers Market Manager.
“There’s really something for everyone at the Canton Farmers Market,” said new Canton Farmers Market Manager Amanda Campana. “We hope that our markets become a family destination every Sunday where folks can enjoy plenty of great merchandise, fresh food, live music, and more!”
Campana is originally from Atlanta, Georgia and graduated from Kennesaw State University with a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science. After graduating she began working for the City of Roswell Recreation & Parks Department (a northern suburb of Atlanta) where she worked as a full-time Recreation Program Supervisor for almost 10 years before moving to Canton, MI. Campana is very excited to be working with the Farmers Market and getting to know the community she will be serving.
Beginning May 15, 2016, the Market will take place rain or shine each Sunday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. (with the exception of July 3) and will feature a variety of local goods for sale, weekly kids crafts and activities, live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and even more.
Local vendors returning this season will include: Agricola, BIGGBY Coffee, Baubles by Barb, Bobilin Honey, Bow Wow K9 Tasty Treats, The Cheese People of Grand Rapids, Cheescake Etcetera, Classique Gifts & Bakes, Crunch Granola, Don’t Worry Bead Happy, Farmington Soap Works, Geiser-Weaver Associates, Good Times Kettle Corn, Jar Head Salsa & Tortilla Chip Co., Kapnick Orchards, Kristie’s Kreations, Lula Bre's Sweet Eats, The Pasta Shop, Pick Michigan, Ruehs Family Farm, Salt and Sugar Company, Steinhauser Farm, Sticks & Stones & Succulents, SP Woodworking, U.P. Pasties, and Valganics Handmade Soap.
Items available for sale on opening day include: honey, greens, spinach, asparagus, flowers, herb and vegetable plants, seasoning blends, jams, pasture-raised meats (beef, pork, chicken), granola, salsa, pasties, pot pies, sauces, marinades, salad dressings, artisan cheese and bread, a variety of baked goods, dog treats, kettle corn, garlic, gluten-free baking mixes and more.
At the May 15th Market, Mark Reitenga will be performing music live on the Bartlett-Travis House porch and Chef Kristi Zebrowski of Grace Savory & Sweet will be preparing food with local ingredients. The Master Gardener volunteers returns with information on seed starting and kids can enjoy jumping in the free bouncer onsite.
Upcoming special events include a perennial exchange on both May 22 and May 29. This year’s market will continue to feature live cooking demonstrations.
Canton’s free Bark in the Park event, located a short trail walk away from the Farmers Market at the adjacent Canton Dog Park, will take place during the hours of the Farmers Market’s opening day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 15.
“Market shoppers and dog owners alike are welcome and encouraged to visit both free community events!” Canton recreation specialist Laura Mortier said.
For more information about the Canton Farmers Market visit www.canton-mi.org/496, pick up the Farmers Market brochure at the Market or contact Amanda Campana at cantonfarmersmarket@canton-mi.org.