Rainy Forecast Can’t Stop Monroe Farmers Markets Opening Day

MONROE, CT — Despite the risk of possible thunderstorms and some rain, residents of Monroe and neighboring towns flooded the green to kick off opening day of the 17th season of the Monroe Farmers Market Friday afternoon.

“We are a rain or shine market, which means we could get five inches of rain or hail – and Gazy (Gazy Brothers Farm) will still stop in his produce trailer,” said Kelly Plunkett, the market director.

The farmers’ market will be held on Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. until October 25. It offers a wide variety of natural products from local vendors spread throughout the city’s green spaces. From fresh vegetables to Italian ice cream to live music, the farmers market is summer
a must-have for supporting local businesses.

This is Plunkett’s 13th season working at the market and she said she is excited to feature five new vendors this season, including Ideal Fish, Murphy’s Mushrooms, Rowland Farm Creamery, American Dream Coffee Co. and Fifth State Distillery . With the return of some fan favorites, such as Drunk Alpaca and Little Kernels Popcorn.

One particularly long line was for Wave Hill Bread, an artisanal micro-bakery, just a few minutes away
after the market opens on Friday. Monroe resident Beth Forger shared her thoughts on Wave Hill Bread.

“I’ve been to the market a few times and my favorite has to be Wave Hill,” she said. “I like to have their garlic pesto bread.”

Ingredients grown in Connecticut

The Monroe Farmers Market received a state grant this year, allowing it to bring back the tasting tent and Market Minis program, which started two years ago and was and continues to be a huge success, according to Plunkett.

“In the tasting tent, we take samples from two vendors every week, which is great because
it allows customers to try things they may not have realized they enjoyed,” Plunkett said. “And then our Market Minis program allows children to come and discover the food they find here by doing scavenger hunts where they have to go talk to different vendors.”

The market not only offers the opportunity to try local products or
grown foods, visitors can also learn more.

“Our goal is to provide the community with Connecticut-grown produce,” Linda said.
Moffet, one of 14 volunteers working at the farmers’ market this year.

“I’ve been going to the farmers market every year since I moved to Monroe,” said Elizabeth Lee of Monroe. “I come whenever I can make it.”

Those who visit the Monroe Farmers Market can socialize with friends and discover tasty local foods.

“Of our 27 vendors, 14 of them are farmers, and all the rest include Connecticut-grown ingredients,” Plunkett said. “Every seller here is within 30 miles of Monroe. It’s really about staying local.

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