LAFAYETTE, IN — The Lafayette Farmers Market is set to return May 2 with a record 120 vendors.
The market will run from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Saturday through October, regardless of weather, according to a community announcement. Greater Lafayette Commerce organizes the event.
The market will be on Fifth Street between Columbia and Ferry streets and on Main Street between Fourth and Sixth streets.
A Lafayette tradition
The market, now in its 187th season, has grown to become a significant draw for the community, attracting thousands of residents each week and providing a reliable revenue source for local growers, food producers and small businesses, according to the announcement.
“Last year broke every record we’ve had — vendors, attendance, all of it. People come because it’s a great Saturday morning, but what’s happening underneath that is significant economic activity,” Mikel Berger, president and CEO of Greater Lafayette Commerce, said in the announcement. “These are small business owners making their margins at this market. And when you’ve got that kind of foot traffic coming downtown every Saturday for six months, that’s huge for every business in this area.”
More than food will be available
This year, the market will feature a wide range of products, including fresh produce, prepared foods, flowers, home goods and artisan items. Live music from local performers will also be a staple throughout the season.
Of the 120 vendors expected, 33 are new. Vendors will include produce growers, bakers, coffee and beverage sellers, meat and dairy producers, florists, artists and specialty food businesses. Many vendors accept credit and cash, and many participate in the SNAP and WIC programs.
Food and beverage trucks such as Ghost Coffee Roasters, Crabby Mike’s BBQ and Grace’s Macarons will be present, offering takeout options. Limited edition tote bags will be given away throughout the season.
Free parking available
Free parking is available in the Columbia Street Parking Garage. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own tote bags, and many sellers accept egg cartons for reuse. Pets are not allowed, except for service animals.
The Lafayette Farmers Market has been operating since 1839 and is sponsored by Subaru of Indiana Automotive.
For more information, including a full list of vendors, visit lafayettefarmersmarket.com.
This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Lafayette Farmers Market to open May 2 with 120 vendors
