Early Bird Market gives sneak peek at offerings of Jackson Farmers Market

The official start of the Jackson Farmers Market may be a month away, but some vendors will sell their goods at an early bird event.

The Early Bird Market, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday on Barton Square, will feature between six and 10 vendors who will sell items including bread, soap, artwork and plants.

Market manager Lance Green said this will be the first time for the Early Bird Market.

"We're wanting to get the ball rolling a little earlier this season," Green said. "Being the first time we'll have a wait and see on how things go."

The farmers market will kick off its third season of operation May 18. The market will continue through Sep. 28 at the same location and time as the Early Bird Market. The market will not operate during Homecomers on July 27.

Last year 32 vendors participated at some point during the market's season. So far about 14 vendors have signed up to participate in this year's market.

Green is hoping a stronger Internet presence, including a website and a Facebook page, will encourage more vendors and customers to attend the market. He said he hopes the online effort will also make it easier for vendors to sign up and allow customers to communicate with organizers.

"We're seeing more and more people sign up on Facebook, and if we can continually remind people of what's happening on a particular week at the market, we're hoping that will make it a bit easier for people to remember," Green said. "Farmers markets are a great way for the community to interact with one another and buy local. I think more and more people are realizing the importance of making a connection with the grower and agriculture product."

The Rev. Grant Gillard of Jackson will be among the vendors when the market begins in May. Gillard sells varieties of honey including strawberry, blueberry and watermelon.

"The market is local, and I live in Jackson," Gillard said. "I think you should do business in Jackson and support Jackson stores if you live here. To me, the farmers market adds to the ambience of the Jackson experience."

For more information about the Jackson Farmers Market, visit www.jacksonfarmersmarket.org.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

243-8600

Pertinent address:

1 Barton Square, Jackson, MO