“We have neglected the truth that a good farmer is a craftsman of the highest order, a kind of artist.” – Wendell Berry
When we first think of farmers' markets, we likely envision booths and stalls, overflowing with brightly colored, seasonal produce. And while this is often true, it is only part of a much larger story. While farm-fresh fruits and vegetables are at the heart of the market experience, the farmer’s market movement connects a thriving network of vendors that support the creativity of local communities.
Furthermore, expanding beyond traditional tables and tents, many of these markets are intertwined with local nonprofits, offering education, business opportunities, and wellness experiences for community members of all ages.
And our own Lancaster Fresh Market, Inc. is a lovely, local example of this thriving movement in action.
Encompassing both the Lancaster Farmers Market, and Keller Market House, Lancaster Fresh Market, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to fostering a culture of local food, artisanship, and entrepreneurship, throughout Fairfield County and beyond.
“I describe Keller Market House as a Farmers Market that never ends. Everything inside is local to Ohio, except for our international wines,” stated Erin Harvey, who manages both the Lancaster Farmer’s Market and Keller Market House.
Featuring 75 vendors, and an array of products including produce, baked goods, honey, flowers, body care, cleaning products, candles, and décor, the Market House supplies alternatives to many traditional grocery store products, while empowering local businesses. Located at 134 S. Columbus Street in Lancaster, the Market House also contains a reservable community room for local events and a kitchen in which vendors can prepare light food items for consumption on site.
“When people come in they are often surprised by how much we have. We have grown a lot over the years and our options are always changing and seasonal,” Harvey explained.
Intended to complement the work of the Lancaster Farmer’s Market, Keller Market House is able to offer resources and programming that might exceed the scope of an outdoor event, while deepening local relationships and community awareness.
“People can come to the Lancaster Farmer’s Market and meet the vendors in person while knowing that the products are at the Market House for them five days a week,” shared Harvey.
Education is also part of Harvey’s passion, and with the return of in-person events, Harvey and her team look forward to the return of cooking classes and other hands-on projects. Proceeds from these activities help further the charitable mission of Keller Market House, enabling capital improvements and purchases that sustain its operations. And while community donations are always encouraged to support these efforts, attracting additional vendors also serves to strengthen the work of the Market House.
To this end, vendors who might be interested in partnering with Keller Market House are encouraged to visit the organization’s website to submit an application. Vendors of all sizes, offering food, art, wearables, and other items, are welcome.
“We are always looking for new vendors. We are growing all the time,” affirmed Harvey.
With so much expansion and success already accomplished, it would seem that a celebration is in order – and it’s already underway. This thriving labor of love will be celebrating its 5th anniversary this Saturday, June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The festivities will be held in conjunction with the Lancaster Farmer’s Market, located on West Chestnut Street, between Broad St. and Columbus St. Drawing upon a children’s birthday party theme, the event will feature free cake pops for the first 300 people to arrive, as well as gift bags for children. Harvey also shared that there will also be a photo booth, an artist offering caricatures, and other fun, family-oriented, activities.
Community members are encouraged to attend, meet the market’s dedicated vendors, and learn more about the life changing impact of local food and craftsmanship in Fairfield County.
For more information about the charitable work of Lancaster Fresh Market, Inc., Keller Market House, and the Lancaster Farmer’s Market, please visit https://www.kellermarkethouse.org/.
Upcoming events
Friday, June 4, from 7 to 9 p.m., don’t miss the return of Friday Night Bandstand. The Summer Concert Series kicks off with Fairfield County Favorite, Bad Influence. The event will be held in downtown Lancaster at 104 N. Broad St. Come early, bring a lawn chair, and prepare to dance. For more information visit https://lancasterparks.com/special-events/friday-night-band-stand/.
Friday, June 4, from 9 to 11 p.m., check out Friday Night Flicks in Pickerington. This free, family-friendly movie night will take place in Sycamore Creek Park Amphitheater and will feature the classic children’s movie, Free Willy. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket. For more information, call 614-833-2211
Saturday, June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., The Lancaster Farmers Market opens for the season. The market will feature fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, body products, and other treats., The market is held in the parking lot at West Chestnut Street, between Broad and Columbus, in Lancaster. Face masks are required. Visit https://www.lancasterohfarmersmarket.org/ for details.
Please email me with your local events and activities! You can contact me at tkellyfairfieldcounty@gmail.com.
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The Link LonkJune 03, 2021 at 10:33PM
https://www.lancastereaglegazette.com/story/life/2021/06/03/lancaster-fresh-market-inc-not-your-traditional-farmers-market/7520819002/
County Connections: Lancaster Fresh Market, Inc. is not your traditional farmers market - Lancaster Eagle Gazette
https://news.google.com/search?q=fresh&hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US:en
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