Four down, one to go.
Escalon’s monthly Farmer’s Market began its 2024 run in mid-April and, after the most recent third Wednesday event on July 17, will wrap up the market in August.
There were a handful of no-show vendors for the July market, perhaps concerned about the possibility of triple digit heat, which had been bearing down on the region. Organizers saw temperatures peaking in the lower 90s on July 17 and though there were fewer vendors than normal, the crowd was still sizeable and there were plenty of places to shop, eat and enjoy the live music.
The final Farmer’s Market night is on the schedule for Aug. 21. They have run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. each third Wednesday; April 17, May 15, June 19 and July 17.
Along with vendors offering everything from pickled products to handmade jewelry, decorative stones to jams and jellies, the market has presented live music on stage and picnic tables are set up in the area in front of the stage so residents have seating options after purchasing food, beverages or cool treats.
There also have been special activities for kids each month, including crafts, coloring, free giveaways and more.
Escalon Chamber of Commerce is the sponsoring organization for the Farmer’s Market, with coordinator Megan McNinch heading up the effort. She said new shade sails over the park have helped provide some relief from the overhead sun and officials are hoping that the August market will draw a big crowd for the finale.
Many of the shops along Main Street have stayed open late during the Farmer’s Market evenings as well, getting some overflow business.
Escalon Fire Department has had a presence at many of the market nights, offering stickers for kids and information for adults. Escalon Historical Society has been represented, with a booth set up in front of the historic caboose in the Main Street Park, selling Escalon-themed items.
Once the Chamber concludes the Farmer’s Market, they will prepare for the annual Wine and Brew Stroll. This year, that is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. downtown. Then it’s the Harvest on Main festivities on Sunday, Oct. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with pumpkin carving and decorating, a costume contest, classic cars on display and more.
