Downtown Farmers Market Kicks Off Its Inaugural Season

The first Bethel Municipal Center Farmers Market opened on a warm, summer afternoon Thursday to a steady stream of local shoppers.

The market was organized by the First Selectman's office and several others who were looking to bring more business to downtown Bethel.

So far about 14 vendors have signed up and most came to opening day.

First Selectman Matthew Knickerbocker said: "We eventually hope to fill the entire lawn, but so far it's off to a great start." 

Several of those were representing Bethel farms and businesses like Holbrook Farm, Daily Fare and Morning Glory Gardens by local author and gardener Colleen Plimpton.

Muriel Connolly, a 40 year Bethel resident, bought two plants from Plimpton and said she thought the farmers market was a great idea.

"I'm so happy to have this...and I can't wait to come back next week," Connolly said. "We have a lot of great businesses in Bethel and this is a great way to highlight them."

Robin Grubard, owner of , was selling different varieties of mini scones and sold out. She said she was excited to be a part of farmers market and plans on being there all season.

"It's especially great that it's downtown," Grubard said. "There has been a great reaction from the crowd, it's all been very positive."

Along with fresh produce and baked goods, other vendors sold handbags, jewelry and home made greeting cards. Bethel-based band Highway Robbery also performed during opening day.

The downtown farmers market will run every Thursday from 3-6 p.m. until Sept. 15 on the front lawn of the Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center, located at 1 School St. 

It's not too late for interested vendors to sign up. For more information, e-mail farmersmarket@betheltownhall.org or call Bethel's First Selectman's Office at 203-794-8501 for more information.

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