LUBBOCK, Texas — The Lubbock Downtown Farmers Market is set to return for another season in Lubbock, bringing fresh produce, baked goods and family-friendly fun back to the community every Saturday through October.
Market Manager Chuck Green said the Market will return Saturday, May 23, and will continue through October 24, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“This will be our 16th year,” Green said. “A lot of people look forward to it each season.”
Green said visitors can expect a variety of vendors from the very beginning.
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“We will have bakers, candy makers, arts and crafts type projects,” Green said.
Green said one of the market’s strengths is its welcoming atmosphere and loyal customer base.
“It’s a good family environment,” Green said. “We have a group of regulars that we know by name.”
Vendor selection is handled through an online application process. Green explained that returning vendors who have participated for years are often grandfathered in.
“We try to keep it unique and focused on local markers and growers,” Green said.
According to Green, the market has also helped launch several local small businesses over the years. Some vendors who started at the farmer’s market eventually opened their own storefronts or expanded into larger ventures.
“It supported a lot of micro businesses that became brick-and-motor businesses,” Green said.
Looking ahead, Green said one of the organization’s biggest goals is to continue improving access to healthy food through the nutrition assistance program.
The market partners with Sustainable Food Center to offer SNAP benefits and Double Up Food Bucks programs, helping families purchase fresh food locally.
“One of our major goals is to provide good nutrition to the general public but also focus on those who need a little assistance,” Green said.