King William County’s popular farmers market has returned to the county and is set to become a permanent fixture, according to its organizers.
King William held its first farmers markets in 2022, attracting large crowds at just two events. Before that, local producers and farmers had to travel to West Point or further afield to Williamsburg and New Kent to sell their produce for years.
The first farmers market of the 2023 season is on June 2 at King William High School. The markets will be held on the first and third Fridays of each month from June to September at King William High School from 4-7 p.m.
After the test pilot farmers market and family fun night was such a success last year, the Economic Development Authority (EDA) decided to continue this year, said Ashley Herndon, the marketing member of the Farmers Market Board on the EDA.
“The King William County Farmers Market is back and here to stay,” Herndon said.
Herndon and her husband Bryan sell jams, jellies, butter and pickles as well as fresh cut flowers and other produce from Timber Hollow Farm.
“We have over 30 vendors registered for this year’s markets ranging from locally grown produce, meats and cheeses, artisan breads and baked goods, homegrown potted plants, honey, fresh herbs and flowers, handcrafted goods, food and dessert trucks, local artists and more,” Herndon said. “We are still accepting vendors and musician applications for upcoming markets, but you must register in advance.”
Admission to the farmers market is free and there are no vendor fees. Sellers must complete an application on the King William County Farmers Market Facebook page to sell their goods at the markets. Musicians may also apply.
“We would love to have as many vendors and live music at each market but need your help finding our local talent and vendors,” a Facebook post reads.
Farms represented on the newly formed citizens board for the market include Bees Knees Farm and Creamery, Timber Hollow Farm and Olde Footpath Farm. Bees Knees, formed in 2015 by Sarah and Dennis Williams, has compassionately raised meats and cheeses. They offer a wide range of meat cuts including pig, goat, chicken and turkey as well as artisan cheeses.
Buddy and Ginger Rice started farming the land at Olde Footpath Farm in the Mangohick area in 2012. They produce garlic, mushrooms, berries and fruit and provide baked cakes, pies, cookies and fresh eggs to the community.
David Macaulay, [email protected]
