Vendors Needed for Downtown Farmer’s Market
By Robin Vinci | Editor at February 22, 2024 | 3:00 pm | Print
If you have produce to sell or are a crafter or a non-profit or a vendor of any other sort, it is time to grab a spot at the downtown Central Park Farmers’ Market.
Mayor Erin Stewart announced this week that the City is seeking vendors interested in participating in the market, which made its successful debut in 2016.
“The downtown New Britain farmers’ market has brought increased foot traffic to our Central Park over the last two years,” said Mayor Stewart. “We’ve had a mix of downtown residents, office workers, and other visitors who ventured outside to enjoy our beautiful park. There was a large variety of fresh, local produce, along with crafts, music, and a variety of food trucks. We are looking forward to making this year’s market season even better.”
The market will operate from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday, beginning July 11th and runs through the end of October.
Zeena Tawfik, Community Services Program Manager, said she believes everyone should visit their local farmers market.
“A regular trip to a farmers market is one of the best ways to connect with where your food comes from,” said Tawfik. “Meeting and talking to farmers and food artisans is a great opportunity to learn more about how and where your food is produced.”
Just like last year, the market will participate in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, better known as WIC. The WIC program provides coupons to qualified individuals who can exchange them for fresh and nutritious locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Tawfik said she is excited for this year’s market and stated that the City is currently seeking local food, craft and non-profit vendors to participate in this year’s market.
Last year some of the vendors included Urth Farms of New Britain; Berger Nursery of Kensington; and Dondero Orchards of Glastonbury.
Farmers must be certified by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture. If you need assistance certifying your produce contact Connecticut Department of Agriculture Marketing representative Rick Macsuga at 860-713-2544 or by email at [email protected].
Stephanie Scalise, Administrative Services Officer, said the event welcomes more crafters.
Vendors must have a valid health license from the City of New Britain or another municipality in the state of Connecticut and must show proof of insurance.
Costs are $25 a month for food and beverage vendors and $10 a month for non-profit vendors.
Any interested vendors should contact Tawfik at 860-826-3366 or Scalise at 860-612-5018.
