Craving some locally-produced pickles, cheese, honey, wine, fish, meats and fresh produce? Need a taco or some empanadas? Maybe a bouquet of heirloom cut flowers? Want to mingle with your neighbors while listening to live music? This Saturday, June 4, the Montclair Farmers Market returns, bringing the best of NJ agriculture, aquaculture and authentically-local shopping to the Montclair community for the 19th consecutive year.
Back in its usual spot at the Walnut Street train station parking lot with all the same vendors (and more), the tents will go up early and the goods will be ready for the first shoppers at 8 a.m. The shopping and fun will continue every Saturday throughout the summer and fall, until November 19.
According to chairperson Steven Schuckman — whose gleeful enthusiasm for the market is palpable, even over the phone — the Montclair Farmer’s Market is a shining model for other towns. “It’s one of the best markets in North Jersey, with some of the best vendors in the state,” he told Baristanet. “What’s more, Montclair gets this market absolutely free, from the hard work of many volunteers who remain committed to keeping it going, even after it lost funding from the Montclair Economic Development Council.” The market recently got non-profit status. “We wanted to make sure we were professional and legitimate,” said Schuckman.
Schuckman and his committee have some exciting features lined up for this year. Two new vendors, Lulada’s empanadas from Glen Ridge and The Everlasting Garden, which sells heirloom field-grown flowers from Branchville, will round out the already diverse offerings. Additionally, a top Montclair restaurant (name not yet being disclosed, but stay tuned), will be featuring a special Montclair Farmer’s Market menu, based on the best items of the week. There will be ongoing restaurant demonstrations, live music and more.
“What more could you ask for?” wondered Schuckman.
To read a full history and watch a video of the market, click here.
There are farmer’s markets all over Baristaville, with fresh, local produce offered almost every day of the week in one location or another.
MONDAYS
Maplewood, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., July-October, Springfield Ave. at Indiana St. (Municipal Street Parking Lot).
WEDNESDAYS
South Orange, Wednesdays, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., July to October, Sloan Street Parking Lot (Across the street from Train Station), Contact: Nancy Shippy (973) 763-6899
THURSDAYS
Bloomfield, Thursdays, July 2 – Oct. 28, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Bloomfield Ave. & State St. (Venner Park).
FRIDAYS
West Orange, Opens July 1, Fridays, noon – 6 p.m., 66 Main St. (Rear parking lot of Municipal Building).
Millburn, June-October, Friday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Main & Essex St. (Municipal Parking Lot #1)
SATURDAYS
Montclair,, June 4 – November 19, Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Walnut Street (Train Station Parking Lot).
Corn photo by S.J. Streeter.
A couple of the vendors have been there Saturdays throughout the winter, including Jimmy from “A Shore Catch,” who brings up dayboat-caught seafood from Point Pleasant. Not inexpensive, but some of the freshest, tastiest fish and shellfish I have had around here. Looking forward to the grand reopening!
An all year farmers’ market would do great in Bloomfield center–the new one if anything ever gets built. I shall call Lancaster County to see if any Amish or Mennonites are available.
Don’t forget the nice people at Tree-Licious, best apple cider around.
Really looking forward to going there on Saturday. Intrigued as to which restaurant will be doing the Farmer’s Market themed menu.
I didn’t go nearly as much as I wanted to last year. Can’t wait for the corn and pickles. Mmmmm.