NEWPORT — The Newport Farmers Market is scheduled to open for its 20th year on Friday at 3 p.m.
The market runs through Oct. 5 and is open rain or shine every Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.
Entertainment on the gazebo on Friday’s opening day will be Scott Forrest.
In 1998, several Newport farmers formed the first Newport Farmers Market on the Common.
After several ups and downs along the way, the market remains active — providing several new programs during the past few years.
The board said it strives to provide something for everyone. Each week, music is provided on the gazebo and at 4 p.m., the Richards Free Library hosts Storytime.
Again this year, Bob, Tommy & Friends Train will offer rides to children and Friends of Richards Library will have a booth to give away books.
At the entrance to the Common on the North Main Street side, the market booth, attended by board President, Richard Scheuer, offers EBT participants the opportunity to purchase $1 tokens to buy fruits and vegetables at participating vendors.
Each $1 token purchased with EBT benefits is matched with a free “Veggie Dollar” coupon, doubling the purchase power of SNAP (food stamp) participants.
In the past, grants have covered the cost of this program. However, this year the expense will be borne by the market sponsors.
To date, Goodrich Oil, Pinnacle Sports, Sugar River Bank, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust and LaValley Building Supply have joined the sponsorship program.
Also at market booth, customers can use their credit cards to purchase $5 tokens to be used like cash at any vendor booth.
The POP (Power of Produce) Club is back again this year.
Kids enjoy scavenger hunts, taste testing and $3 POP tokens to spend on healthy fruits and vegetables.
This year, the cost of the children’s program will be paid from market funds.
Some of the items available for purchase this year include fruits, vegetables, berries in season, plants, flowers, hot dogs, herbs, ice cream, frozen yogurt, fudge, kettle corn, lemonade, breads, pastries, fried dough, tacos, alpaca fiber products, hand-painted jewelry, orgonite jewelry, woven baskets, jams and jellies, natural dog treats, honey, frozen meats, eggs, maple syrup, black walnuts, butternuts, goat milk soap and Newport memorabilia.
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