Acton Farmer’s Market returns to downtown for the 2021 season

Last year the Acton BIA resumed the management of the Acton Farmer’s Market and moved it back downtown. Originally held south of Highway 7 on Willow it had moved to the parking lot of Bethel Church. It is back on the north end of Willow (in front of Town Hall) for its second season. June 3 was the opening of the market. Alex Hilson, Manager Acton BIA, says “Attendance last week was excellent. We likely saw a couple hundred people over the length of the market, which is common for us. We were particularly happy with that outcome given that it looked like we were going to get lightning in the morning.” The market hosts about fifteen vendors weekly and has room for more. This year has many returning vendors and some new additions. One exciting addition is Guelph Beer. 2021 marks the first season that craft beer vendors have been permitted at markets, previously only wine and cider was allowed. According to their website, “is a partnership focused on nurturing and growing Guelph’s exceptional beer culture by furthering beer education, promoting collaboration, and building Guelph’s reputation as a world-class brewing centre and beer destination.” As part of their marketing initiative they have reserved a spot at the Acton (and other) Farmer’s Market and one of their five brewers will attend each week. Nataura has returned for their second year. This local maker, Natasha Dahl, makes artisan soaps, bath products, candles, pottery, and new this year, bug spray. She has two lines of product from which she donates 20% of sales. The “anxious mind” line helps support Anxiety Canada and the “pet lovers” line supports Upper Credit Humane Society. Multi-level marketing businesses have been allowed to return to the farmer’s market. Avon, Scentsy, and Tupperware all have seasonal booths. These vendors have product available on site or are happy to place orders for you without the pressure of hosting a “party”. Meg Allen, Owner of Bundled Blooms, is new to the market this year. She grew up in Acton but currently resides in Rockwood. She works from her studio space, on Wallace Street, offering custom floral designs and event orders. For markets she designs arrangements in various price ranges. This is just a few examples of what is available this year. Hilson says “we will start seeing a lot more produce as June goes on and we will have berries in the next week or two.” He also confirmed that “There is a weekly spot for charitable organizations, but we encourage any and all community organizations to consider reaching out. We are here to serve them and the community at large and are happy to accommodate them if they would like a table.” The Acton Farmers Market runs from 4 p.m.- 7 p.m. every Thursday until October 7. Parking is available at the Green P adjacent to the market (enter off of Main Street), as well as on surrounding side streets and at the Green P on the south side of Willow.