Check out the news release below from the City of Binghamton. There was a press conference today at the Metro Center to kick off the start of the Winter Farmers Market!
Mayor Ryan Joins Community Partners to Announce the Otsiningo Winter Farmers’ Market
BINGHAMTON, NY— Mayor Ryan joined community partners today to announce the opening of the Otsiningo Winter Farmers’ Market at the Metro Center.
Market Dates/Hours and Free Parking:
- The Market will take place in the Metro Center on December 3rd and 17th, and then every second and fourth Saturday of the month from January through April, 9:00am—noon. This Saturday’s edition of the Market will include a special holiday theme, arts display and remain open until 2:00pm.
- The Farmers’ Market will also take place in the Metro Center during First Friday Art Walks, 5:00—8:00pm, from January through April.
- Those shopping at the Market may park free of charge in the Metro Center lot.
“Farmers’ markets with fresh, local food are vital to our community’s health and well-being, and also supports our regional economy,” said Mayor Matt Ryan. “I applaud the organizers of the Otsiningo Winter Farmers’ Market for their commitment to offering produce to our community even during the winter season, and I encourage citizens to take advantage of what the Market has to offer.”
“The Otsiningo Winter Farmers’ Market is an exciting opportunity for downtown Binghamton, farmers and residents,” said Lauren Tonti, VINES Urban Farm Co-Manager. “Having the Market downtown during the winter will not only help strengthen the ties between local farmers and Binghamton residents, but also bring people to downtown Binghamton.”
“Participating in the winter market is giving our farm an opportunity to continue to market during months when farmers are traditionally unable to do so,” said Niechelle Wade of Sunny Hill Farm, a participating vendor. “This is a boost to our income, as well as a benefit to the consumer, who can continue to enjoy healthy, fresh food in the winter months.”
The Otsiningo Winter Farmers’ Market is sponsored by the Otsiningo Farmers’ Market Association, City of Binghamton and the Metro Center. Supporters include Volunteers Improving Neighborhood Environments (VINES), the Metro Center and the Gorgeous Washington Street Association. From May through November, the Otsiningo Park Farmers’ Market takes place in Otsiningo Park.
For more information on the Otsiningo Winter Farmers’ Market, please contact Lauren Tonti of the VINES Urban Farm, at 732-570-7619 or vinesvolunteers@gmail.com.