Market to open at McKinley

After a sparse turnout in 2020 due to pandemic regulations, Creston Farmers Market, sponsored by Greater Regional Health, is coming back. It’s slated for its regular schedule, 4 p.m. Mondays June 7 through September 27.

“I feel like we’re going to have a really good year this year and a lot of variety,” said Alexi Groumoutis, market manager.

This year, Farmers Market fans can expect a mixture of their favorite vendors throughout the season: produce from Bridgewater and Frederickson farms, Randol honey, a variety of natural and candied apples from Clover Hill Orchard, baked goods by Lauri Long and from Trinity’s Kitchen, and pasteurized pork and chicken from Kingwood Farm. Vendors with handmade wares such as rugs, jewelry, pottery, art, doll clothes, natural bath and beauty products will also be at the market again. New this year are locally roasted coffee, bagels, flowers and crafts.

Kids activities are still on hold as Groumoutis gauges the crowd and learns more about state requirements. However, wellness demonstrations will be integrated into the market and musicians are invited to jam again with Beards of a Feather, who perform in the shelter each week.

“We’ve seen everyone participate from the young to the old, so it’s fun to listen to them and see who’s new stepping in and playing for the day,” Groumoutis said.

Become a vendor

Those interested in selling at Creston Farmers Market, Groumoutis said, “just show up.”

Vendors are required to be set up by 4 p.m. and stay the duration of the market. It’s also not a requirement to commit to every week, but it makes for a diverse selection of goods. The fee to sell at the market is $8 per day or $75 for the season. Anyone with items requiring a license to sell will need to provide proof.

Food truck vendors are asked to contact Groumoutis at 515-447-3952. For questions about licensing requirements contact Kurt Rueber at the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals at kurt.rueber@dia.iowa.gov.

“If people have questions about what they can make or what licenses are required, he’s a really good resource,” Groumoutis said.

Groumoutis said Mondays at the market is a nice way for the community to unwind, reconnect, support local businesses and enjoy the amenities at McKinley.

“I think people are really excited to get out and be a part of the world again,” she said.

For updates, follow Creston Farmers Market on Facebook.