The arrival of May marks the beginning of the fresh food season at the Kennebunk Farmers’ Market. In contrast to the bounty of fresh Maine seafood, many area farmers and vendors arrive weekly to set out their delicious wares for visitors and residents to enjoy.
This year, the market moves to the Lafayette Center for the season. With a great new location along the Mousam River behind the center’s parking lot, this year’s market kicks off May 2 with events and displays. Featured groups participating in the Opening Day include the Maine Cooperative Extension and area 4H clubs, and there will be a number of children’s activities, including interactive livestock displays and face painting.
Opening Saturday at the market coincides with the 17th annual May Day Festival in Kennebunk, providing all who attend with additional “shopportunities.” Many crafters and artisans will have booths and tables to offer their wares throughout town, in addition to all the participating farms and vendors already participating in the market. There’s also the annual parade, which will kick off at 1:30 p.m.
The market has nearly 30 vendors signed up already, including many crowd favorites, and will be hosting additional special events throughout the season, including a Tomato Tasting Day in September, and both the Harvest Fest and Apple Festival in October. All vendors must be residents of southern Maine, and visitors to the market can find a wide variety of great products, from jams and fruits to fresh vegetables and delicious baked goods.
The Kennebunk Farmers’ Market is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday – rain or shine – from May 2 to Nov. 21 this year. Located just a 5 mile drive from Fontenay Terrace, the market is a great stop during your stay or a perfect day trip to explore and experience the fresh tastes and bold flavors of southern Maine.