VOC Chicopee Farmers’ Market Kicks Off Today

CHICOPEE — The Chicopee Farmers’ Market, sponsored by Valley Opportunity Council (VOC), kicks off today, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 35 Mount Carmel Ave. in Chicopee, adjacent to VOC’s administrative office and early-education center.

Held in partnership with the city of Chicopee and Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture, VOC’s Chicopee Farmers’ Market will be available to the public starting at 10 a.m. every Wednesday during the summer through Sept. 20.

VOC’s mission in hosting the event is to provide healthy products from local vendors at accessible prices in a place where the community gathers.

Highlights of this year’s Chicopee Farmers’ Market include a Lego Day, a Christmas in July celebration, a back-to-school event in August, a corn fest, and a Spanish music mix.

VOC has run the Chicopee Farmers’ Market for more than 20 years, with more than 2,500 visitors every summer, giving local farmers and small vendors the opportunity to sell their fresh produce and goods to the community. The market offers a variety of fresh and locally grown products from more than 15 vendors, including plants; vegetables, fruits, and jams; baked goods; maple syrup and honey; eggs; herbs; and more. Vendors will also have crafts, jewelry, and candles for sale.

There will be community resources and activities throughout the season during the Chicopee Farmers’ Market, including entertainment, nutritional services, gardening advice, and access to all Valley Opportunity Council services.

This year’s vendors include Genaro’s Farm, Bobbi Snyder’s beads and hand crafts, Karen Tillman’s jewelry, Summit Farm, Yarb Patch Plant, Sunshine Village, Pignatare’s Farm, Nuestra Raices, Maria Denise/Pink Zebra scented candles, Sweet City, the Center School, Artise Carr/Kidney Awareness, and more.