By the VFM Board
It’s spring. Area farmers are planting, and the Vicksburg Farmers’ Market will open Friday, May 16 at the Vicksburg Community Pavillion, 300 North Richardson Street. The market is open every Friday from 2-6 p.m. through September 26 (except the 4th of July). This will be the 16th year for the market, and we are excited about its growth and an expanding schedule of farm- and food-related activities for all ages.
Some facts about our market:
Last year, the market hosted 55 vendors with an average daily attendance of about 500 people. Over the years, we have increased the number of farmers selling local produce, as well as the variety of locally produced food products and artisans. Supporting our local farmers and producers, and providing quality food to area residents, is our core mission.
We do much more. VFM collaborates with the Vicksburg Historical Society to host events within the Historic Village, and the Village of Vicksburg to host an event during Christmas in the Village. This year we’ll continue to host musical guests such as Soulful Rock and Chris and Jamie, the Big Read Machine, and crafts and activities for kids. This year, look for added activities, such as demonstrations by Tillers International that could include grain milling, butter churning, a mobile iron forge, and woodworking. Special local artists and artisans will also be highlighted throughout the year. The market will be at the Historic Village on June 26, July 25, and August 21. Please look at vicksburgfarmersmarket.com for an event calendar.
Generous Hands provides coupons for qualified area residents to obtain fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products from local producers. The market vendors also accept SNAP benefits, Double Up Food Bucks, and Senior Project Fresh. This provides valuable support to both residents and farmers, as well as allowing the funds to recirculate within our community.
The VFM is one of only a few markets run by a non-profit volunteer board. Each market is staffed by volunteers who work to make the market run smoothly, coordinate vendors, count attendees, and receive tokens used by attendees for reimbursement to the vendors. Although the Village of Vicksburg does not operate the VFM, its support is much appreciated. Last year, thanks to the village, we were able to improve handicap accessibility at the pavilion.
Vendor fees cover just 70% of the VFM budget. The success of the market relies upon donations to keep vendor fees reasonable. Donations allow us to attract and retain farmers selling fresh produce, as well as quality food producers and skilled artisans. Donations can be accepted at any time during the market season at our website on the “Donate” page, and at the market information table on Fridays.
The 2025 Farm to Fork fundraising dinner will be held Saturday, September 6 at the pavilion. This event will be a fun community gathering supporting our local farmers and food producers. Sponsorship/advertising opportunities are available. Check our website and social media for updates and join us!
You can also participate in our first ever locally and sustainably sourced compost fundraiser on opening day, May 16th. Purchase a five-gallon bucket full of rich compost for $25 or bring your own to fill for $20.
See you at the market!
