The Bradenton Farmers’ Market Returns to Downtown Bradenton, FL
The Bradenton Farmers’ Market returns to downtown Bradenton on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., and continues every Saturday through May 30, 2020.
The Market takes place on Old Main Street (12th Street West), between Manatee Avenue West and Third Avenue West in downtown Bradenton. Parking is free and dogs on leashes are always welcome. For more information about the Bradenton Farmers’ Market, visit Bradenton Farmers Market website.
“The Bradenton Farmers’ Market is a true seasonal market that mirrors the Florida growing period. The end of summer ushers in opening day at the market, which is always anticipated by our vendors and patrons,” said Peg Haynes, Market Manager. “We have built a welcoming community at the market that has something for everyone. You will find local produce, cooking demonstrations by local chefs, hands-on activities for families, and more.”
Over 30 vendors will line Old Main Street every Saturday at the market, selling locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisan food products, and handmade crafts under the shade of the historic buildings and trees.
“In keeping with our mission to improve quality of life, we continue to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) EBT cards. We are also members of the Fresh Access Bucks (FAB) network, which provides free Florida-grown produce to SNAP recipients by matching SNAP/EBT purchases, up to $40,” Haynes explained. The FAB program is being administered by Feeding Florida, Florida’s Food Bank Network.
Opening day activities include Chef at the Market with Chef Gerard Jesse, Executive Chef at the Seafood Shack. Demonstrations by local chefs or samplings by local food businesses are scheduled every Saturday. Week two meet Brianna Dine-Stisser, owner of The Daily Dose Juice Garden located in downtown Bradenton. Enjoy samples of fresh, cold pressed juices. Demonstrations by local chefs or samplings by local food businesses are scheduled for every Saturday.
Opening day is host to other happenings at the market including music by Trevor Bystrom and Syl Vee R. Florida Blue will observe Breast Cancer Awareness month and will provide valuable information about the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
There are many special seasonal events planned and an array of ongoing, family-friendly activities that rotate on a weekly schedule.
Ongoing Activities
Mainly Art: Dozens of local artists and craftspeople displaying and selling their creations. Art, crafts, and live music, are available from 9 a.m.–2 p.m., on 4th Avenue West where it connects with the Bradenton Farmers’ Market on Old Main Street, every third Saturday of each month until the end of May 2020.
TAH DAH Line Dancers: Join in the fun on the first Saturday of the month at 9 a.m.
Master Gardeners from the Manatee County Extension Office: The first Saturday of the month, beginning in November.
Florida Department of Health in Manatee County: Healthy lifestyle activities on the second Saturday of the month.
High Vibe Studio & Trading Company: The third Saturday of the month, from 10:45-11:15 a.m. 30 minutes of beginner-friendly yoga. Please bring your own mat and water. Donations welcome.
Central Manatee Library’s Creative Learning Stations: The third Saturday of the month.
Kids in the Kitchen with the Junior League of Manatee County: The fourth Saturday of each month. Registration at 11:30 a.m.
Upcoming Special Events
Howl’ween Pet Parade on Oct. 26: Watch as lines of pooches strut down Old Main Street in Halloween costumes with their owners. Prizes! Owners are encouraged to dress up too! There will be a special prize for best owner and pet costumes. This event is a fundraising activity for The Friends of Manatee County Animal Services. Minimum suggested donation $5 to enter. Signup is 10 a.m.; pet parade at 10:30 a.m.; judging at 11 a.m.
Farm City Week on Nov. 9: A celebration of farming in Manatee County, featuring The Citrus Industry, Then and Now. Youth from the Manatee County 4H Youth Council and Future Farmers of America are participating in this kickoff event for Farm City Week, Nov. 9 – Nov. 21.
For more information, vendor listings, and schedule of ongoing activities at the Bradenton Farmers’ Market, visit Bradenton Farmers Market website. Prospective vendors may apply by completing an online application form.
About the Bradenton Farmers’ Market
The Bradenton Farmers’ Market, a production of Realize Bradenton, features more than 30 vendors who offer locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, organic products, prepared foods, and the work of local artists and craftspeople. Live music, demonstrations by local chefs, and free family activities are also part of the fun. The market, located on Old Main Street, between Manatee Ave. W. and Third Avenue West in downtown Bradenton, is open every Saturday through the end of May, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Parking is free and dogs on leashes are welcome. For more information, visit Farmers Market website.
About Realize Bradenton
Realize Bradenton is a nonprofit organization that promotes redevelopment and economic growth in downtown Bradenton by transforming places, engaging people, and realizing possibilities. For more information, visit Realize Bradenton.website.
Photos from Realize Bradenton.