On Fridays at the intersection of College Avenue and Locust Lane, residents of State College have the opportunity to shop at the many tables stationed at the downtown farmers’ market. The market runs from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and includes a variety of vendors.
Farmers’ Markets are an assembly of physical booths, tables or stalls that vendors use to sell a product that they made directly to the consumer. At this farmers’ market, shoppers can make selections from produce, baked goods, flowers, and more.
VALLEY asked students what their favorite parts of the farmers’ market are and what brings them back each week.
One of the top responses, unsurprisingly, was food. Most of the students that VALLEY talked to say that the baked goods are one of the main reasons for attendence.
“I love the atmosphere it provides to downtown State College. It’s a great place to go and check out local items being sold,” says freshman Ryan Breen.
Flowers and succulents are also sold at the farmers’ market, which students can buy for a reasonable price to decorate their apartments or dorms.
Seasonal items also attract the local Penn State crowd, with freshly baked pumpkin rolls and apple cider displayed frequently on tables.
COVID-19 regulations during fall 2020 made it nearly impossible for many activities to take place, temporarily halting the function of this downtown favorite.
“The farmers’ market is a really good way for students to support local vendors and eat healthily,” says senior Emma Moul.
With rave reviews on their Facebook page, frequent shoppers of the downtown farmers’ market also speak to the personalities of the vendors there.
According to their website, their mission is “to create an environment for farmers and residents of Centre County to mutually benefit from a market of locally produced items.” Vendors are also required to personally produce all of the items that they sell.
Supporting your local farmers and vendors means that you’re putting back directly into your community, which is something to feel good about as a consumer.
You’ll spot these vendors at the farmer’s market: Deb’s Flower Farm, Demeter’s Garden, Earth Design Farm, Fasta & Ravioli Co., Gemelli Bakers, Happy Vale Farm, Harner Farm, Moser’s Garden Produce, Patchwork Farm and Greenhouse, The Piper’s Peck, Way Fruit Farm, Woodfired Bake Shop, Happy Valley Beer Bread.
The downtown farmers’ market is seasonal, which means it won’t be staying into the winter! Take an hour to stop by until the end of November. You can also sign up for a weekly newsletter on their website.
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