Simpsonville Farmers Market set to open Saturday

'Support the local community'

Simpsonville, S.C. — With spring in full swing, the 2021 season of the Simpsonville Farmers Market starts Saturday at 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. in City Park.

The Farmers Market will feature 36 food and craft vendors set up adjacent to Park Drive and East Curtis Street. Market Committee Member Amanda Hernandez said organizers and vendors are “excited” to begin the season.

“The market isn’t just a great place to buy local and sustainably produced foods,” said Hernandez, who oversees media relations. “It’s where we go to see our friends and support the local community.”

After starting in 2010 as a Thursday afternoon market, the Simpsonville Farmers Market has grown from 4-5 vendors per week to averaging 35 vendors per week after the move from the lawn in front of the now Cotton Mill apartments to City Park on Saturdays. 

Hernandez said the Simpsonville Farmers Market is unique in that it does not have sponsorships but is entirely run by vendors, volunteers and a committee of four long-time vendors: Hernandez, Tanya Bryson, Dianne Carson and Michelle Ellis.

“After expenses are paid, any remaining money is donated to local causes,” Hernandez said. 

For the 2021 season, the Simpsonville Farmers Market will be supporting the Center for Community Services and the free meals program by the Simpsonville Parks & Recreation Department and local nonprofit Senior Action.

Councilmember Jenn Hulehan of Ward 3 is an avid fan of the Simpsonville Farmers Market. Hulehan said she visits the Market nearly every Saturday and gets most of her weekly groceries there.

"The Farmers Market is great because there's no food that tastes better or is better for your health than fresh locally grown produce," Hulehan said. "I also love shopping at our market because I'm supporting local farmers and artisans, and my money stays right here in our local community with people who, in turn, support our city."

Featured at this year’s Market are about 24 food vendors and 12 craft vendors. 

Products from food vendors include vegetables, cheeses, meat, baked goods, gluten-free items, pastries, locally roasted coffee beans, honey and mushrooms. Craft products include local woodwork, soaps, flower arrangements, pottery and glass work.

Precautions to be followed by the Simpsonville Farmers Market are social distancing practices, prohibition against touching items and pointing to items for purchase. Wearing masks is recommended but not required. Leashed dogs are permitted.

​Simpsonville Community Relations Specialist Justin Campbell said the Farmers Market is a great way to support local businesses and the community.

“Instead of buying all the produce or meat that you need from the grocery store or getting gifts for family members at the mall, visit the Simpsonville Farmers Market to find fresh food and well-made products,” Campbell said. “Buying local has a huge impact on the local economy.”

The Simpsonville Farmers Market runs every Saturday in May - September at 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. in City Park, weather permitting. Follow the Simpsonville Farmers Market on social media: Simpsonville Farmers Market Facebook page.