Farmers’ markets provide a venue for communities to socialize, revitalize downtown districts, and help educate people to make informed food choices. They are also attractive outlets for locally grown flowers, ornamentals, and edible crops. Interest in farmers markets continues to grow in Mississippi, with around 90 markets in about 60 counties. One of the state’s largest and most bustling markets is the Mississippi Farmers Market in Jackson, located adjacent to the Mississippi Fairgrounds, which has been in operation for nearly 20 years. However, a farmers’ market doesn’t have to be massive to have a sizable impact on a community.
For Mississippi’s more rural cities and counties, pop-up markets help communities that otherwise may need more access to fresh fruit and vegetables. Neighbors of all ages and backgrounds can gather, learn about healthy foods and where they come from, and often get ideas on how to prepare them, encouraging families to try new vegetables. And usually, all it takes is one concerned and eager resident to get a farmer’s market up and running.
Grace Sanders, who used to live in Hattiesburg, enjoyed going to the Downtown Hattiesburg Farmers Market during the season and even worked at a market while in college. When Sanders moved to the quaint town of Pelahatchie, she longed for a place to engage with her community and buy fresh foods.
“Since I moved to Pelahatchie, I’ve looked for different farmers markets,” Sanders shared. “There are a couple in Morton and some in Pearl, but none in Pelahatchie, which I thought was weird. So, I decided to make that happen.”
First, Sanders drew inspiration from the Hattiesburg Farmers Market by looking at its website and reminiscing about her positive experiences there. Next, Sanders went to the town hall and requested the use of the town park.
“Everyone at town hall was happy to let me use the park,” explained Sanders. “The city requested that I handle all the logistics. And we are up to fourteen vendors for our first market.”
The community is excited about the first market and its positive potential. “My family and I are excited for the future growth of our community,” shared Adam Surkin, a resident of Pelahatchie. “The farmer’s market is a great opportunity to showcase our local farmers and all they have to offer.” The market will operate on the second or third Saturday of each month from April through December, opening its gates from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Many Mississippi Farmers Markets are gearing up to start their season this month. Most will be in full swing by May and continue the summer growing season into the fall.
But not all markets will happen on the weekends. For instance, the Downtown Hattiesburg Farmers Market and the Livingston Local Markets occur on Thursday nights with music, food trucks, and vendors. Regardless of the day of the week a market takes place, they are all supported by dedicated volunteers, vendors, and beloved fixtures in the local town’s social and economic landscape.
Make it a family tradition to get out and support this seasonal business. Most markets don’t make a profit; they provide a venue for other small businesses to come and make a living selling the goods and services they’re passionate about. Buy a carton of eggs, a gallon of milk, a nick-nack, or a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers; you won’t regret the time spent in your community supporting your community.
Find a local market near you by clicking here.
