Farmers markets arrive alongside summer weather

With a streak of 80-degree days projected to stretch into late next week, summer feels like it has arrived in Putnam County.

Right on cue with warmer temperatures is the return of farmers markets at three Putnam County locations.

In Cloverdale and Greencastle, the farmers markets will make their returns on Saturday, while in Bainbridge the market is set for Wednesday.

With a normal time slot of 8 a.m.-noon each Saturday, the first edition of the Cloverdale Farmers Market will run from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

The market takes place at 302 S. Main St., the grassy lot south of First National Bank.

Other specials for Day 1 are flowers to plant for the first 25 children and seed packets for the first 50 shoppers as well as a basket full of goodies donated by the vendors.

Additionally, for the first event of the season, organizers have opened spots to crafters outside of their customary 25-mile radius.

One rule that won’t be waived, first day or otherwise, is that only producers are allowed to sell their wares.

“I’d just like to let people know we are a producers-only market. You have to grow it or make it yourself,” Manager Amy Hunter said. “We’re always looking for new people.”

The fee to participate in the market is $25 for the season or $10 for a one-time set-up. Vendors must provide their own tables, chairs and canopy, if desired.

The market also welcomes homemade arts and crafts, with a limit on the number of the same types of crafts. No flea market items are allowed.

For more information, contact Hunter at cloverdalefarmersmarket1@gmail.com.

In Greencastle, the market will be on the Putnam County Courthouse Square, as always.

Vendors will be set up on Indiana Street between Washington and Franklin from 8 a.m.-noon.

While produce isn’t in season just yet, the market will have locally-made products from baked goods to woodworking to homemade soap.

The market also features live music each week during the season, which runs through October.

For week one, shoppers can stop by and get a free tree to plant at their homes (see sidebar).

Anyone interested in being a vendor may contact the Greater Greencastle Chamber of Commerce at 653-4517.

With other communities cornering the Saturday morning crowd, organizers in Bainbridge are focusing on mid-week, with a farmers market from 4-7 p.m. each Wednesday.

The market will take place at the Bainbridge Community Building, 201 N. Grant Ave., every Wednesday through Oct. 10.

Vendors are welcome with no insurance required. Cost to take part is $5 per night or $20 per season.

Shoppers are obviously also welcome.

For more information, email bainbridgefarmmarket@gmail.com or search Bainbridge Farm Market on Facebook.

The Bainbridge Farmers Market is sponsored by Crossroads Care Pharmacy and the Bainbridge Improvement Society.