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Date: 4/17/2023
AMHERST — If last week’s agreeable weather was not a big enough clue, the time has almost arrived for the 2023 Amherst Farmer’ Market.
What has become an annual destination event kicks off its season Saturday, April 22. Manager and Director of Operations David Machowski said the market continues to thrive as much more than an outdoor alternative to the large chain food outlets. Not that there are not some similarities when it comes to a customer and client base.
“The regulars are out there … we find a loyal audience to the market,” he said.
Machowski is himself one who can speak to loyalty when it comes to the market with years of experience under his belt at the market as it readies to launch its 51st year in Amherst.
He began with the market while still and undergraduate student in 1986, continuing until 2002 when he left to focus on a growing family. But after a 15-year hiatus of sorts, he returned to run things, “to right the ship,” as he put it, after the operation stumbled amid stagnating growth.
While seeing a resurgence and steady expansion while still at its original Spring Street location, Machowski said the move to the common as the coronavirus pandemic diminished had a dramatic effect on vendor interest, offers and of course overall attendance.
Even prior to that he says, “during the COVID years, especially 2020, sales were up dramatically … in the era of safe distancing … we were [seemingly] the only game in town.”
Machowski said the move to the common, “was key … going from a parking lot to a park.” That made the market a destination, “where people can come and loiter.”
The sights, sounds and smells will return, as will produce, hot and cold foods and products from local producers. The specialty food makers will also be back, with artisans creating signature offerings like granola and crème brulee.
Captain’s Finest Seafood in New Bedford returns with overnight catches, as well as the latest creations from several local breweries.
The music and festival-like atmosphere create a day where people can head for lunch, enjoy the crowds and bring home a few things to make for dinner.
The beginning Saturdays see the smaller dedicated crowds, which grow to increasing masses as the season progresses.
A “bad” day, Machowski said sees a smaller group of around of 800 come out, especially in the first couple of weeks when the weather may not be the best but that quickly gives way for crowds in the thousands during the market’s 31-week run.
Those numbers also mean an economic drive for the downtown area, something he said is well due.
“The town has been incredibly supportive, up to providing picnic tables around the market,” he said.
Many of the more than 40 vendors have been with the market for years and while it is rare for them not to remain all season, Machowski says there is room for new and diverse additions during the year.
With a strong presence and growth on social media, the market has also gained recognition as among the best in the state. The social media face aimed at bringing in the fresh faces who they hope will become life-long patrons.
The market opens Saturday, April 22 from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and runs through mid-November.
More details and full list of vendors and attractions can be found at a amherstfarmersmarket.com.