The annual Noblesville Farmers Market, organized by Noblesville Main Street, opens Saturday, May 6 from 8 a.m. until noon for the first of 24 consecutive weeks ending on Oct. 14, 2017. The 2017 market will take place at Federal Hill Commons located at 175 Logan Street.
“The opening of the Farmers Market in our new home, Federal Hill Commons, is an exciting time,” said Chris Owens, CEO of Noblesville Main Street. “The City of Noblesville has sought our input from the start of planning this project and we are happy to see activities begin and our community enjoy this amenity in downtown.”
New to the market this year, the Main Street hospitality tent is sponsored by Community Health Network and is the location for patrons using SNAP benefits and Fresh Bucks, a local initiative to further combat food insecurity.
Fresh Bucks is a SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, double-up program, that allows customers who pay with their EBT card to double their dollars, up to $20 a day, spent on fruits and vegetables. The Fresh Bucks program is a project of the Indy Hunger Network, a local nonprofit whose goal is to ensure that anyone who is hungry can access the nutritious food that they need. IHN is a coalition of leading anti-hunger organizations within the Indianapolis area. Fresh Bucks is currently funded by the Indiana State Department of Health and works closely with other nutrition, hunger and agriculture organizations to further their mission.
“Federal Hill Commons is an urban park meant to be enjoyed by all and accessible via car, bike or on foot,” said Brandon Bennett, director of Noblesville Parks and Recreation. “We are happy to showcase new features to enhance the market experience including a playground on-site along with dedicated seating, restroom facilities and more. We look forward to what our partnership with Noblesville Main Street will offer our community in collaborative events and festivals.”
This market is the oldest and largest in Hamilton County with more than 80 vendors offering farm-fresh homegrown fruits, vegetables, meats, plants, herbs, flowers, honey, spices, wine, jams, jellies and salsas. Locally handmade items include baked goods, soaps, jewelry, artwork, quality crafts and pet products. The popular food court offers breakfast and lunch choices, as well as takeout items and snack food for those on the go. But if you want to move at a slower pace, tables are provided for patrons to sit and visit while listening to live performers.
In keeping with a tradition of the market started several years ago, the first Saturday of every month June through October will feature a limited business showcase giving local businesses the opportunity to engage and connect with patrons. Noblesville Main Street has also planned special event days as part of the market and they include: Kids Day on June 24, a Health Fair on July 22, Pie Day on Aug. 12, Pet day Sept. 23 and finally a chili cook-off on Oct. 14. Event dates are subject to change.
Join your neighbors and friends on May 6 for the opening day at the Noblesville Main Street Farmers Market from 8 a.m. until noon.