Colorful open-air farmers markets thrive

By Sarah Hall
Beacon Correspondent

Sheboygan County farmers markets are offering a visual feast of fresh selections and color lately, and late-summer blooms are among the most sought-after items. Who knew that so many talented floral designers could be found plying their trade under awnings, with bouquets selling for as little as $6?

Currently, at least three farmers markets in Sheboygan County – in Plymouth, Elkhart Lake and downtown Sheboygan – remain open this summer and continue to thrive. Fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheese, herbs, bakery items and many other products are among those offered for sale.

“We are very fortunate to be able to have the markets this year, given the pandemic,” said Maria Camara, farmers market coordinator for the Sheboygan County Interfaith Organization, which sponsors the markets in Plymouth and Sheboygan. “Farmers markets were determined to be an essential food resource by the state.”

“Turnout has been great. We have a lot of happy customers,” she added, noting that sales are up and two programs that increase customers’ buying power have proven very popular. Sheboygan County residents age 60 and over can come to the information booth at the SCIO markets, fill out a simple application and receive a voucher for $25 worth of fresh produce through the statewide Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program if they meet income guidelines. Food Share recipients can also bring their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to the information booth and receive tokens to spend at the market. In addition, Food Share recipients can receive up to $10 in fresh produce vouchers through the St. Nicholas Hospital Double Your Bucks Program. For more information, visit https://www.sheboygancountyinterfaith.org/farmers-market/.

At the SCIO markets, vendors are required and customers are strongly encouraged to wear masks. Hand-washing stations are available. Hours have been somewhat reduced since last year.

Here is a summary of local farmers market times and locations:

Plymouth Farmers Market

Dairy Queen parking lot

3101 Eastern Avenue

Thursdays, noon to 5 p.m.

Through mid-October

Sheboygan Farmers Market

Fountain Park at 8th Street and Erie Avenue

Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Through the end of October

Elkhart Lake Farmer and Artisan Market

Downtown Elkhart Lake

Sponsored by the Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Through mid-October

Capelle’s Farm Market at 2236 Eastern Avenue in Plymouth also offers fresh, native produce from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.