Creating a party atmosphere for this year’s kickoff, the Patchogue Farmers Market will be offering free face painting and cotton candy, along with its usual family fun, on Sunday, May 31.
“The first day should be a fun party, and hopefully every day just builds on that,” said Dana Williams, Patchogue Farmers Market coordinator. “The entire season (which runs to Nov. 1) is free to attend and free to participate in.”
With a myriad of vendors specializing in handcrafted items, the market takes place every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Long Island Railroad station, Division Street and S. Ocean Avenue, Patchogue.
There was a time when enthusiasm did not run as high. “It had just kind of been neglected. The market itself was dwindling down in participation and exposure and management,” Williams said. But last season brought a revitalization through Abby Gruppuso of The Better Man Distilling Co. “So, this is a new and improved Patchogue Farmers Market,” Williams said.
Each Sunday attendees can enjoy live entertainment, as well as pay-what-you-can Pilates classes (FlowHaus by Yaz) and refreshments like lemonade, baked goods and food truck cuisine.
Williams anticipates some 30 vendors each week with artisan-style merchandise—everything from toys to tote bags, spices to permanent jewelry and honey.
On kickoff day, the entertainment will be classic, easy-listening rock performed live by Kelli Baker Music, as well as book readings by Islip author April Day Garcia, who recently released “The Room to be Brave,” an inspirational tome. For the kids, NatureConnect 365 offers a nature-themed craft. Additionally, there will be weekly opportunities to adopt a pet, starting with Last Chance Animal Rescue of Holbrook.
“We’re trying to build this up and make this a Sunday destination,” Williams said.
The market will be held rain or shine with severe weather alone prompting cancellation.