The Evanston Farmers’ Market opened for the season Saturday with about 1,000 people turning out to buy produce.
The market, now in its 33rd year, will remain open every Saturday until Nov. 1. The market takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the intersection of University Place and Oak Avenue. Only 19 vendors came Saturday, but organizers think the 41 spaces for vendors will fill up as the season progresses, market manager Alisa Dean said.
“This has been a wonderful day, ” Dean said. “Look at the weather, and the flowers are beautiful. It’s been a really nice crowd and a good turnout for the first day.”
The majority of vendors sold flowers, but market-goers could also buy cheese, vegetables and spreads. The Bennison’s Bakery station sold out early in the day, Dean said.
Parks, Forestry and Recreation provided entertainment for the family with a truck display, sports games and face painting. They also distributed information about their various programs. Market organizers try to bring at least one department from the city to provide demonstrations for community members.
Evanston resident Lonny Levin came to the market with his wife and 6-year-old son. While he and his wife bought cheese and flowers, his son played games provided by the Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department.
“It’s been very nice,” Levin said. “The farmers’ market is always good. It means summer is coming.”
Todd Nichols, a vendor from Nichols Farm and Orchard, turned out for opening day, marking the 30th year his family has sold their produce at the market. His 300-acre farm in Marengo, Ill., supports four families and has almost every fruit and vegetable that can grow in Illinois, he said.
“Evanston is the best market around.” Nichols said. “It’s been a good turnout, a lot of people with families. This is what farmers’ markets thrive on.”
Vendor Joe Burns, from Brunkow Cheese and Fayette Creamery in Fayette, Wis., said Saturday was one of the best opening days.
“The weather turned out,” Burns said. “It seemed a little busier for us.”
Market master Curtis H. Chancellor, who has been working at that farmers’ market for about 20 years, hopes Saturday is the start of a good season.
“Opening day was successful,” Chancellor said. “It’s a good opportunity for people to visit with each other and see the equipment the city uses.”
