PLATTSBURGH — The Plattsburgh Farmers and Crafters Market opened for the season Saturday featuring a variety of local vendors selling produce, meats, baked goods, plants, wine and spirits, honey, handmade crafts, jewelry and more, as well as live music and a food truck on site.
“I have been a part of this market for about seven years, but I have been doing markets for about 20,” Melissa Poirier, of Winding Brook Farm, said.
Poirier’s favorite part about participating in the market is having the opportunity to get together with other vendors and meeting customers.
“We get some wonderful customers here,” She said.
“There is a real sense of community here, it is off the beaten path but this is a really good market spot.”
Local vendors offered beef, eggs, hanging baskets, seedlings, woodwork, art work, hand sewn items, maple syrup, plants, cookies, bread, jewelry and more.
Informational tabling was provided by The Battle of Plattsburgh Association, Cornell University Coop Extension for tips and advice on gardening and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.
“It’s good, I’m glad to be open again and get the season going,” Sue Carusone, Market Manager, said.
“We’re starting to get a crowd here, hoping it gets bigger. We’ve been waiting all winter to open again.”
According to Carusone, there are 35 vendors currently registered and the market will be introducing a few new vendors this season.
“We are always looking for more vendors,” she said.
The Little Free Library Book Exchange and The Power of Produce made a return to the market.
The Little Free Library Book Exchange, market goers can trade in a book for a book of their choosing and receive a free bookmark with each book. You do not need to trade in a book, but it helps to grow the library.
The Power of Produce is a program focused on educating children about fruits and vegetables, local food systems and healthy food preparation through fun activities.
“I come here about three or four times a year, with my mom and dad,” Shanna Sorrell, market visitor said.
According to Sorrell, she has been visiting the market since it started.
“I love it, I like the plants and veggies,” She said.
Connie Cassevaugh, a local artist, has participated in this market since just after it began, about 34 years ago.
“It’s really nice, really nice to have a market here,” she said.
“And to have the building, it takes me a couple days to set up, I couldn’t do this with a booth outside setting up an hour before market time, oh no.”
Cassevaugh’s favorite aspect of the market has always been the familiar atmosphere.
“I know everybody here, which is nice,” she said.
“And I know the customers, everyone is so friendly.”
The PFCM was established in June, 2005 with the intention of making it easier to support the Champlain Valley’s farmers, crafters, food makers, and musicians.
“Stop by, come on down and check out our vendors,” Carusone said.
The market will be open every Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Plattsburgh Farmers & Crafters Market located at 26 Green St, Plattsburgh until Oct. 12.