The weekly farmers market on Penn Street has a new home at the courtyard of the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts this season, which opens Thursday.
Organizational changes within the former Penn Street Market and downtown development put the market at risk of disappearing if it was unable to find a new location, officials said in an announcement.
With support from the Wyomissing Foundation, the GoggleWorks will continue the market, bringing local food, community partners, art, culture and public gathering at its campus at 201 Washington St., just a few blocks from the market’s previous location.
The market, renamed Reading Roots Market, will take place every Thursday from June 11 through Oct. 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
It will feature fresh produce and vendors, among them the Bog Turtle Creek Farm, Farm Traveler and GoggleWorks Gardens at Lauer’s Park, along with art demonstrations, family-friendly activities, entertainment and community organizations.
“Reading Roots Market is about more than preserving a farmers market,” said Levi Landis, GoggleWorks executive director. “It is about protecting a vital community gathering space, supporting local food access, celebrating creativity, and making downtown Reading a more vibrant place to live, work and visit.”
The inaugural market Thursday will include invited community leaders and dignitaries.
After the market, GoggleWorks will welcome visiting textile artist Avelina Martínez García for a special live weaving demonstration from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on the Thorn Alley Stage. Presented in partnership with the Consulate of Mexico, the bilingual program will highlight Indigenous textile traditions, including natural dyeing, spinning and backstrap loom weaving.
At 3 p.m., a World Cup kick-off viewing party will be held, featuring Mexico vs. South Africa, at the Thorn Allen Kitchen. Guests can watch the match while enjoying food and drink specials available for purchase.