HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – The Harrisonburg Farmers Market will celebrate 45 years in the Friendly City this weekend.

Since the Harrisonburg Farmers Market’s establishment in 1979, it has provided fresh, nutritious and locally produced agricultural goods and crafts for locals and visitors alike.According to a press release, the Harrisonburg Market first began to form in the 1950s, as it became a gathering place for both shopping and connection. The Market, which consists of 50 vendors, has become a hub for entrepreneurship for regional farmers and artisans.

In addition to promoting low-waste practices and buying local, the market, in partnership with Harrisonburg Public Works and Climate Action Alliance of the Valley, supports environmental stewardship by providing opportunities for recycling and composting.

The community is invited to celebrate this milestone. Those who come out to the Market this weekend can don a birthday hat, make a flag for a new Market pennant with Market regular Theresa or enjoy a complimentary gluten free cupcake made by Market Manager Halee at the brick-and-mortar location of vendor BMC Bakes.

There will be a limited number of gf/vegan cupcakes available as well. 

The schedule for the Market’s celebrations is as follows:

  • 9:30-11: Music from Hannah (Hickory Hill Farm), Mike, & Dan
  • 9-12: Bubbles with Bubbles by the Burg
  • 11: Address from Mayor Reed, with cupcakes available afterwards (while supplies last)
  • 11:30-1: Music from Off the Railz
  • On-going: Pennant making, wear a birthday hat!

Check out www.harrisonburgfarmersmarket.com, the Harrisonburg Farmers’ Market newsletter and their Facebook and Instagram pages for more information.