By MADDY VITALE
Families looking for some sweet deals in the way of farm fresh veggies and fruits should visit the Ocean City Farmers & Crafters Market, which opens Wednesday.
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. 9. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, face coverings are required.
Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michele Gillian said the weekly event through the summer offers the right recipe for those who want to get out in the fresh air and shop.
“The Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to safely welcome people back to the Ocean City Farmers and Crafters Market,” Gillian said Tuesday. “Having an outside market provides people with a safer alternative for shopping for their Jersey Fresh produce.”
In its 25th year, the Ocean City Farmers & Crafters Market, a Chamber event, offers shoppers an assortment of locally grown delights.
Juicy tomatoes and cucumbers, watermelon, blueberries, homemade pies, flowers, honey, special sauces and jams are just some of the yearly treats for shoppers.
Then there are crafters with specialty items that make fun gifts. There is handcrafted jewelry, artwork and household items. Asbury Avenue is closed to motor vehicle traffic at Sixth Street and crafters tables are set up there.
With many events postponed or canceled throughout the county, state and country because of COVID-19, the Ocean City Farmers and Crafters Market is one way people can continue to enjoy a slice of life that has become a tradition for visitors and residents over the years.
“The Ocean City Farmers Market has become a staple over the years for both residents and guests,” Gillian said.
She also urged people to follow the safety guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control to help lessen the spread of the coronavirus.
“We ask that everyone be kind, wear a face covering, remember to wash their hands, and social distance,” Gillian added.
The market, established 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.
The location of the market on the Asbury Avenue commercial corridor also has provided a benefit for the downtown merchants.
“Please join us in supporting our New Jersey farmers and crafters every Wednesday in Ocean City,” Gillian said.
For more information about the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce Farmers & Crafters Market call 609-399-1412 or visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
