Sikeston's Downtown Farmers Market to open on Saturday

SIKESTON, Mo. -- The unseasonably warm spring is bringing a bounty of produce to local consumers a littler earlier this year.

Kim Robinson, executive director of HMDG, said that after talking with local producers, the Downtown Farmers Market will open at 7 a.m. this Saturday in the American Legion Square. In the past, the local farmers market has opened around the first of June.

"This year will mark our seventh anniversary for the Downtown Farmers Market," said Robinson. "It has grown into one of the largest and most successful farmers markets in the surrounding area."

She said she expects approximately 20 vendors featuring locally grown fruits and vegetables to set up shop around the square, located just off Malone Avenue and New Madrid Street. In addition, buyers will also find specialty baked goods, such as homemade breads and doughnuts, along with local honey.

This year's vendors will include many of the familiar faces as well as some new ones, Robinson said. Also she has invited local craft vendors to set up booths.

Last year's vendors offered not only fruits and vegetables but such things as organically grown herbs and diabetic sweet treats.

For those new to the Downtown Farmers Market, Robinson provided a suggestion: Come early.

"Everything is sold on a first come, first served basis, so some things run out early in the day," she said. "Okra and tomatoes tend to sell out early."

Each Saturday morning, along with the vendors, there will be a bluegrass jam session.

"Anyone that wants to join in with the bluegrass musicians to sing and play along are welcome," Robinson said.

Those interested in selling their produce, baked goods or craft items at the Downtown Farmers Market are required to purchase a Sikeston city vendors license. The license is $2 per Saturday or an annual license can be purchased for $25.

The license may be purchased at the Sikeston City Hall Monday through Friday or on Saturday at the Downtown Farmers Market from Robinson.

The Saturday Farmers Market will run through Oct. 27.

For more information contact Robinson at 573-380-3801.

Pertinent address:

Malone Avenue and New Madrid Street, Sikeston, MO