Farmers market opening set

MOUNT OLIVE — The Mount Olive Presbyterian Church Outreach Committee has announced the opening of the Mount Olive Farmers Market for its fourth season.

The Saturday market will open June 3 and run through October 28 and will be open from 8 a.m. until noon. Local vendors will be set up in the parking area at 105 North Breazeale Avenue. Parking and entry to the market is free.

“We look forward to another year of a family-friendly market to enhance our local community’s quality of life and fresh food initiatives,” said MOPC Outreach Representative Wendy Ford. “This event unites our local farmers, craftsmen, artists, bakers, jewelers and the University of Mount Olive School of Agriculture to create a diverse farmers market for our local community.”

One vendor this year will be J&J Martins Farm Produce, the recent recipient of the 2023 N.C. Small Farmer of the Year from N.C. State A&T University Cooperative Extension. Another highlight will be a new food vendor, RJ’s BBQ.

“This season is much more than a farmers market, it’s a place to bring your family for good local food, education and fun,” Ford said. “Photos and videos of our vendors and their products are featured on our Facebook page. Come out to meet and talk with us.”

Many educational opportunities will be available with UMO agricultural students, local beekeepers, craftsmen and artists. Vendors returning this year include J&J Martins Farm Produce, Acorn Acres Farmstead, Cleo’s Honey, For Goodness Bakes, Seams So Sweet, Cheesecake Chicas, Pinky’s Retro Plant Shoppe, Paper Gems and handcrafted jewelry. Featured items include framed art, jams, pickles, Elderberry syrup, cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, honey sticks, fresh fruits and vegetables. Farm eggs and frozen foods include beef, pork, sausage, chicken, duck and tasty sauces.

For information about the market, visit MtOliveFarmersMarket on Facebook.

New vendors from Calypso, LaGrange, Dudley and Faison are welcome to join us. New vendors should message the Facebook page with their name and contact information for consideration to reserve a space.

— From the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page