The Midtown Farmers Market will begin its new season on Saturday, March 7 with the debut a fresh, made-over look for 2015.
New features and alterations to one of the regions’ top farmers markets will retain popular market elements such as locally grown fruits and vegetables, musical entertainment and chef demonstrations while incorporating new elements that will create a deeper engaged experience and a great start to any weekend.
“The Midtown Business Association recognizes that our farmers market should reflect the dynamic, eclectic and ever-changing tastes of the Midtown neighborhood and community,” said Emily Baime Michaels, Executive Director of the Midtown Business Association, owner of the market. “By freshening up the Midtown Farmers Market for the new season, we are setting the stage for the community to linger longer and enjoy the uniquely Midtown experience.”
The transformation has been directed by new Midtown Farmers Market management, Unseen Heroes. “Farmers Market 2.0”, as it’s internally referred according to Maritza Davis, Co-Founder of Unseen Heroes, will highlight its identity as not only as a space for shopping locally, but also a communal gathering.
As such, new seating areas have been put in place and, to encourage a “strolling” atmosphere, a new vendor layout was designed. Committed to engaging all guests, the market will also present “Budding Foodies”, a children activity space of food-related arts and crafts.
To engage kids even further, a continuous partnership has been made with the California Literacy Center, a nonprofit that finds creative ways to inspire children to love fresh fruits and vegetables.
As should be expected of a farmers market, fresh, locally grown produce is at the heart of what the Midtown Farmers Market does. But Michaels says Farmers Market 2.0 will focus on having more.
“Farmers markets often balance the number of farmer-related edibles and locally produced beverages with other non-edible items such as flowers and artisan-crafted goods,” said Michaels. “If people can shop, sample and savor as they stroll, we’ll keep them coming back for more.”
Experience the free, made-over Midtown Farmers Market every Saturday between 8am and 1pm, rain or shine. The market is situated under a canopy of trees on 20th Street between J and K. Parking is available adjacent to the market on 2020 J St.
“Our goal is to create enjoyable experiences for everyone: neighbors, parents, grandparents, kids and pets, too,” said Davis. “We are excited to take the already successful concept to a whole new level with some engaging and fun twists along the way.”
