Farmers Market Organizers Pleased with Turnout, Look to Extend Access to Fresh Produce

With the pandemic shutdown in full force, the organizers of the Watertown Farmers Market had to consider whether they should host the weekly market in 2020 and, if so, how they could do it safely and whether people would come out. As the season nears its end, organizers are pleased with how the market turned out. Stephanie Venizelos, the Town’s Community Wellness Program Manager and Farmers Market Manager, said the market at Saltonstall Park got a good crowd every Wednesday over the summer and into the fall. “No one knew what to anticipate. We’ve been bringing in 500-700 people a week.

This Week at the Farmers Market: Blueberries, Microgreens & More

The Watertown Farmers Market provided the following information:

It’s that time of year – summer fun is in full swing! The weather is warm, lots of grilling and time outdoors. The market is filled with beautiful produce including sweet corn, summer squash, and other goodies to bring home to your table. This week we continue to enjoy our summer favorite: delicious blueberries! Loaded with antioxidants, blueberries can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

See How to Preorder Items at the Watertown Farmers Market

Many vendors at the 2020 Watertown Farmers Market will be accepting preorders, including those selling produce, meat, fish and baked goods. Find out more in the information provided by the Market organizers. Vendor Preorder Information

How do I preorder? View each vendor’s preorder information below. Shoppers may have to visit a vendor’s website or online storefront, send an email, or make a phone call to place their order.

New Vendors Joining Watertown Farmers Market — Opening Day June 17

The start of the Watertown Farmers Market is around the corner and shoppers have some new options to choose from this year, which will be offering baked goods, bagels, produce, tahini and more. The first farmers market will take place on Wednesday, June 17, from 2:30-6:30 p.m. in Saltonstall Park, at the corner of Main Street and Whites Avenue, next to Town Hall (149 Main St.). The Market will run rough Oct. 14, and — to begin with, at least — will operate with social distancing measures (see farther below). The managers of the Farmers Market sent out the following statement”

The start of the season has been challenging for many small farms and businesses from loss of staff and the need to make changes to business operations with new safety precautions in place.

Watertown Farmers Market Opening Soon, Will Follow Social Distancing Guidelines

The Watertown Farmers Market will return on June 17, and be back every Wednesday. Due to COVID-19, visitors will notice some changes. The market will institute measures to allow for social distancing, and there will be a one-way flow for shoppers. The focus, at least at the beginning of the season, will be on the vendors. “While we have eliminated music, special events, and community groups for the time being, you can still expect to find locally grown and produced foods in our pleasurable, outdoor market space,” the announcement said.

Free Produce Deliveries Available for SNAP/HIP Customers

The following information was provided by the Watertown Farmers Market:

Mass Food Delivery is offering SNAP/HIP customers a variety of options to access Farm Fresh food with FREE delivery to your door. (free delivery for SNAP eligible customers only)

See information here https://massfooddelivery.com/

Are you looking for a way to access your $40 HIP benefit? Mass Food Delivery is offering a 15 lb. mixed produce box of fruits & vegetables (a$40 value). Delivered to your door FREE with a HIP transaction.

Watertown Farmers Market Plans to Open on Schedule, Vendors Offer Delivery & Pick Up Ordering

The Watertown Farmers’ Market will be back this June, organizers say. Residents can support the vendors who appear at the Watertown Farmers Market even before the season begins in June, and organizers say that the market plans to open on schedule in June. While the COVID-19 outbreak has closed many businesses, Stephanie Venizelos, manager of the Watertown Farmers Market, said that the market will be opening in June. “Farmers markets have been declared an essential business, like grocery stores,” Venizelos said. “We are planning for a safe market that adheres to all the guidelines.”

Weather Cancels Watertown Farmers Market

The following information was provided by the Watertown Farmers Market:

Watertown Farmers’ Market Market Closed Today! Wednesday, August 21st Due to the forecast of severe weather today and the threat of thunderstorms, today’s market is cancelled. We apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to seeing everyone next Wednesday for our Back to School Celebration.