Credit: Submitted
For years, community members have mentioned that Bristol Borough needs a farmers market.
Recently, the riverfront borough finally got one.
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The Historic Bristol Borough Farmers Market began operations during the first weekend of June and has plans to grow, but it needs local support to do so, said Joe Rakowski, one of the volunteer organizers and owner of Mill Street business Nobel Earth.
The Sunday farmers market will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mill Street crossing pocket park at the corner of Mill Street and Old Route 13 ever week through October 27.
Rakowski said the handful of local farmers and artisans, all from within 60 miles of Bristol, were thrilled with the early turnout. As the farmers market moves forward, organizers are looking to attract more vendors as more locals come out to get produce and other products.
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“There organic and sustainable farmers and artisans,” he said, adding musicians also perform each week.
The Mill Street Crossing lot has room for between a dozen and two dozen vendors, which is something Rakowski hopes will be achieved in the coming years.
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This year, organizers hope to work with farmers and vendors to host seasonal activities for families at the farmers market.
Rakowski noted that Bristol Borough Council helped with moving the farmers market forward. He also cited the sponsorship from Penn Community Bank, his business Nobel Earth, Dr. Ratini, Love Grows CSA, and Bristol Borough: Raising the Bar.
The national Farmers Market Coalition notes in their literature that markets like in Bristol stimulate the local economy, keeps smaller farms operating, increase access to nutritious food for those with limited income, and support healthy communities.
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“We had a lot of local people who walked here and were able to come down,” Rakowski said. “This is why we have an incredible community.”
