Submitted by Aberdeen Sunday Market
Grays Harbor residents and visitors will soon have a new spot to pick up fresh, locally grown produce in Aberdeen on Sundays. The newly developed Aberdeen Sunday Market will run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each Sunday beginning May 26 and running through September 15 at the south end of Broadway in Downtown Aberdeen.
Market Manager, Lauren Garrett, is working alongside an energized committee to bring this farmers market to life and ensure a good selection of locally farmed produce as well as handmade goods and entertainment.
“What we’re striving for is a weekly celebration of the Harbor’s local bounty and culture,” said Garrett. “We have been working diligently to bring together a vibrant, well-rounded and robust farmers’ market that will cultivate a greater sense of community as well as encourage visitors to spend some time in Aberdeen, as it develops back into its own destination spot.”
The market will take place on Sundays in order to not compete with other markets and events that have already established themselves in the area. Also, there is the intention that eastbound tourists will feel encouraged to make a stop, stretch their legs and check out downtown Aberdeen.
“We’ll be set up along the return route from the beaches, so plenty of visitors will see us enjoying good food and having a good time. Plus, we’re located very close to Aberdeen’s newest brewery and food truck and walking distance to other businesses, who we’re sure will also benefit from having the Farmers’ Market downtown.”
The market has received support and funding from the City of Aberdeen, Grays Harbor County Tourism Board (LTAC) and the Aberdeen Downtown Association, giving the committee the ability to ensure promotion and recruitment of vendors is truly possible. The goal in this first year is to establish a true farmers’ market with primarily food and farm related booths and work on fundraising in order to ensure the market will make a successful return year after year.
The Aberdeen Sunday Market has a variety of producers already signed on – some who you may be familiar with, and others who are up and coming – including Sky Island Farm, Harbor Eden Farms, Brady’s Oysters, Sassy Seafood, Harbor Roots and more. There is still room for additional vendors who meet the Washington State Farmers’ Market Association’s “Roots Guidelines” (more info at wafarmersmarkets.org).
Additionally, the planning committee is seeking out support for sharing the news about the market. Plans to promote the market have begun and will pick up speed as opening day comes closer. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, providing financial support, entertainment, or helping to promote market events, please contact Lauren Garrett at info@aberdeensundaymarket.org for more information.
