Farmington

Get 'smitten with the mitten' at farmers market

By David Wallace
C & G Staff Writer

FARMINGTON — The Farmington Farmers and Artisans Market will open its 2010 season May 8 with a special theme: smitten with the mitten.

It refers to buying locally and supporting the Farmington and state economies, a concept the Downtown Development Authority stresses in every activity it does.

Opening day begins at 9 a.m. when Miss Farmington will ring the market bell. Genot Picor, a storyteller who mixes games and songs into his interactive presentations about Michigan history, will perform 11 a.m.-2 p.m. During those same hours, people can watch guitarist Bob Monteleone play a set.

Kids can make “fun with plaster” art projects at the market, and they can also draw on the sidewalk with chalk.

The May 8 market will include two drawings. One will name the Apple Blossom Mother of the Market and present her with a basket of Michigan products, a crown and a sash to denote her new status as “Top Mom.” The other drawing will be for a weekly Market Basket of fresh goods from the vendors.

In addition to the special events, the other stars of the market are the farmers, artisans, foods and crafts.

“The timing is perfect, because Saturday is a wonderful time to pick up a Mother’s Day gift,” said Janet Bloom, DDA events planner.

“Whenever I need a gift, if I’m going to a housewarming party or an open house or a high school graduation, I try my best to get the gifts at the market or downtown Farmington,” said Farmington City Councilwoman Valerie Knol, who frequently visits the market to buy fruits and vegetables.

Knol is an avid gardener, so she also buys many of her annuals there. She shops for fresh-cut flowers, too.

“I think our farmers market has quickly become one of the leading farmers markets in the area,” said Farmington Mayor Tom Buck. “The selection of vegetables and flowers, and crafts and food, and artwork is really terrific.”

The market operates rain or shine from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays through Nov. 20.

“We try to give a little bit more each week,” said Bloom. “We’re going to be bringing in local chef talent to do cooking demonstrations.”

The market attracts about 25 vendors each week.

“We average about 3,500 people a week through the market,” said Bloom.

“It’s a great way to support the Michigan economy and local businesses,” said Knol.

“In addition to that, there’s great deals, it’s healthy fruits and vegetables, and hey, it’s fun. You meet your neighbors there,” said Knol.

She said she finds good deals at the market, including jewelry.

“You can get great earrings for $5 to $10,” said Knol.

You can reach C & G Staff Writer David Wallace at dwallace@candgnews.com or at (586)498-1053.