Farmers market returns Monday

It’s that time of year again. Creston’s Farmers Market opens the season Monday on a punctual June 1 start. The market will continue through the summer weekly and end with an equally punctual Monday, Aug. 31.

From 4-6:30 p.m., McKinley Park will be the location of the market, where local vendors will present their homemade and homegrown wares. The laidback atmosphere is aided by barbecue from Spencer’s Chophouse, serving burgers, steak sandwiches and gyros, and the acoustic music of Birds of a Feather.

Bringing together a local community, farmers market manager Alexi Groumoutis said the seasonal market gives a chance for local vendors to experiment and present products they take a personal pride in. Add in wonderful summer weather and the farmers market is an iconic event.

“It’s a perfect time of the year to get out,” Groumoutis said. “People can enjoy McKinley Park and McKinley Lake, which I think is the prettiest part of this community. We’re lucky to have this space. It brings us all together for this very limited time period. It makes it so much special.”

Other events involve kids activities and wellness demonstrations sponsored by Greater Regional Health. Groumoutis said there’s been an increase in kids with their own vendor booths, selling animal balloons and cookies, whatever they can think of while staying responsible.

“Watching them make something and sell something is priceless,” Groumoutis said.

Friendly faces behind every stall with ripe fruits and vegetables, the alternative options within farmers markets are often fresher than buying from a supermarket. Buying from the farmers market helps the local community continue thriving.

“Supporting the market is very important because people are putting a lot of time and effort into creating something that is homegrown and homemade for the local community,” Groumoutis said. “It comes from their heart. This is something that you won’t find anywhere else. Sure, you can go to the store and buy it, but here, your neighbors have grown it. It’s more special and healthier for you. And it’s made with love.”

While all five weeks of June’s farmers market kids activities have been filled, Groumoutis said she’s looking for businesses and non-profits to sponsor activities through July and August. Those interested should contact Groumoutis to reserve their spot.