By MADDY VITALE
Fresh Jersey corn, ripe and juicy tomatoes and homemade pies are among the scrumptious goodies available at the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce Farmers & Crafters Market, which opens Wednesday, June 30.
The market is held on the Ocean City Tabernacle grounds at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 29. The crafters, with handmade jewelry, artwork and household items, will have their items up for sale on Asbury Avenue between Fifth and Sixth Streets.
Now in its 26th year, the Farmers Market offers shoppers an array of fresh vegetables, fruits, fresh herbs, fresh flowers, homemade baked goods, sauces, jams and crafts, all from local farms and vendors, in addition to many other treats.
Fresh flowers are a favorite year after year.
Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michele Gillian said the weekly summer market offers a wonderful outdoor activity to the community, while also giving local farmers and crafters business.
She noted that the Chamber is “excited to once again host the Ocean City Farmers and Crafters Market.”
“It's a great way to bring Jersey Fresh produce directly from the farm to the consumers. The market is a gathering place for the community,” Gillian pointed out. “Many of our farmers and crafters have been with us for years and have a regular following. It's a great start to the season and we look forward to seeing everyone there on Wednesdays."
Asbury Avenue is closed to motor vehicle traffic at Sixth Street and crafters tables are set up there.
The location of the market on the Asbury Avenue commercial corridor also has provided a benefit for the downtown merchants.
The market, established in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, is designed to benefit local farmers by exposing them to a new outlet to sell their produce, which will help sustain their farms.
For more information, call 609-399-1412 or visit the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce at www.oceancityvacation.com.
There is a wide assortment of produce, flowers, sweets and crafts to choose from.
