The Wharton County Farmers Market (WCFM) kicks off their Spring/Summer season this Saturday, April 3 with an Easter themed market.
While the location remains at Guffey Park, the market has implemented a few changes to showcase the many talents of Wharton County vendors and provide a safe, enjoyable experience for all.
The County Gin sat down with WCFM President Kody Kieler to hear all about the market’s plans for the 2021 season.
Parking
“One of the biggest changes for this year is the parking situation,” Kieler told The Gin.
“Since we have added so many vendors, we will be utilizing the entire area of Guffey Park for the market and will not allow general parking within the market area. Obviously, the public’s safety is a top priority and the new parking assignments help to keep everyone safe.”
The market will have designated handicap and elderly parking spots, as well as signs to help guide attendees to the appropriate parking areas.
Below is a map to guide attendees and ease possible confusion.
Children’s Activities
Other additions to this year’s market include activities for children.
“This weekend we will have a ‘Spot the Egg’ activity for kids,” Kieler said. “Each vendor will have candy to fill the kid’s baskets when they spot the egg planted at each booth.
“Our hope is to have something different each week that provides fun for children.”
Brooke Hepburn with Arts of Utopia will also have a face painting booth for both young and old.
Handcrafted & Locally Grown
Kieler also explained changes to the vendor application implemented this year.
“I think one of the main reasons that makes the market so successful is the locally sourced and handmade items from our vendors,” she said.
“We really wanted our market to reflect the talents and hard work of our community. So, we have added a rule to our application that requires all products be locally grown and/or handcrafted.”
Extended Season
This season will run from April 3 to June 19, giving attendees and vendors a longer season to enjoy the market.
“Many vendors requested that we extend each season,” Kieler told The Gin. “We listened and are excited to host the first 12 week long season.”
Continuing this season will be live music from local performers.
“Bringing in live music last year really helped to turn this market into an event,” she said. “This weekend, Mark McFail will be the performing artist.”
What once was a small group of local farmers, bakers and artists has developed into a community event. An event, Kieler says, that has brought in many visitors to Wharton and created a fun, and relaxed atmosphere.
“I look forward to the market each time,” she said. “I, of course, sell my honey, but I also enjoy seeing the community support our local businesses.”
The market begins at 9 a.m. and continues until Noon every Saturday from April 3 to June 19.
For more information concerning vendors and activities, like and follow the Wharton County Farmers Market on Facebook.
Publisher’s Note: With the push to boost our local economy, I encourage each of you to make your way to Guffey Park each Saturday morning. I can guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see the vast array of local artists, bakers and business owners. It’s inviting. It’s fun. It has all the potential to highlight Wharton and its amazing community. Hope to see you there.
