By Phoebe Prettyman
The sun was out and shining Wednesday for the first Ocean City Farmers and Crafters Market of the 2019 summer season. Located on the grounds of the Ocean City Tabernacle at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue, the market offers a variety of fresh produce, artwork, crafts, treats and more.
It features more than 40 food stands and 40 vendors who sell arts and crafts.
There is something for everyone – even the little ones.
Alanna Scargill, 9, of Malvern, Pa., was excited to buy colorful slime from the “Slime by the Sea” booth.
When asked about her purchase she said, “My parents don’t really like it, but I love it. It is fun to play with.”
Followed with some laughs and giggles, Alanna talked about how she and her family have gone to the Farmers Market for many years when they come to the Jersey Shore.
The many crafts and kid-friendly products are only a fraction of what the Farmers Market has to offer. There are places to get produce, flowers, clothing, jewelry and even dog treats.
One of the longest-running vendors at the market is the Monteleone Farm produce stand. They offer a plethora of vegetables including corn, tomatoes, peaches, and many more.
When asked about the booth, Doris Monteleone smiled and explained, “We have been here since the very start of the Farmers Market.”
The Monteleone Farm’s presence is always a staple of the market year after year. The market is celebrating its 24th year.
While there are other vendors who come back year after year, there are also a host of new ones that joined the market in recent years.
One vendor who specializes in repurposing wood and metal to create art and sculptures is entering the second year at the market.
Rob Zane, a North Cape May resident, is the man behind the sculpting.
The market, sponsored by the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, is open every Wednesday until the beginning of September from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the grounds of the Ocean City Tabernacle.
For more information, call 609-399-1412 or visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
