Farmers market with a long history to open Saturday

Port Washington’s farmers market, one of the oldest such markets in the area, will open the 2021 season Saturday.

The market, which is held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on East Main Street between Franklin and Wisconsin streets, will have a range of early produce such as peas, lettuce and herbs, food products like dips and soups, flowers, honey and baked goods, Port Main Street Inc. Executive Director Kristina Tadeo said.

Flavored lemonades, elderberry products, fresh eggs and meat will be for sale, she said.

There will also be a variety of artists, including woodworkers, copper artists, jewelry makers and handmade soaps and lotions.

There will be vendors with items for pets, including treats and clothing.

“I think there’s a good variety,” Tadeo said, adding she expects an average of 22 sellers each week. “And I continue to get phone calls and emails and applications weekly.”

While the offerings may be limited in early markets, they become more expansive as the season wears on and gardens flourish.

The farmers market is sponsored by Port Main Street, and it has proven to be a popular event. Residents and visitors stop not only to shop but to exchange the latest gossip.

It’s been that way for more than 40 years, ever since a group of downtown business owners sponsored the first market.

Tadeo, who said she’s been a longtime customer at the market, attributes its success to two things — a good roster of vendors who focus on locally grown food and the location.

“The location can’t be beat,” she said. “You’re in a historic downtown district and you have great views of the lake.”

The Port farmers market runs on Saturdays through Oct. 23.