With the fifth of five scheduled Farmer’s Markets in Escalon on the calendar for Wednesday, Aug. 19, organizers are looking for a good turnout at the finale. The once-a-month event kicked off in April and has been hosted downtown on Main Street the third Wednesday of each month since.
Market manager for the sponsoring Escalon Lions Club, Megan McNinch, said it has proven to be a popular event and some new features – especially the Senior Bucks Program – added to the overall success.
“The Senior Bucks Program was created to give back to seniors in our community since Escalon Farmer’s Market was not eligible for outside senior nutrition assistance funding at the time,” explained McNinch. “Rather than let that stop us, we partnered with local businesses that stepped up to sponsor the program so our seniors could continue enjoying fresh, locally grown products at the market.”
The Lions Club – which was also a Senior Bucks contributor – took over coordination of the market this year and offered both recognition and thanks to the 2026 Senior Bucks Sponsors.
Along with the Lions, they included: Jessica Wylie’s Farmers Insurance, C. Nelson Bookkeeping & Taxes, D’Boni’s Pizza, HomeSown Flowers, Laura Catrina – Our 209 Real Estate Lady, Main Street Garage, and Van Dyk Construction.
“Their sponsorship allows us to provide Senior Bucks vouchers to 50 seniors, ages 55 and over, on a first-come, first-served basis at each market. These vouchers can be redeemed with participating vendors for qualifying products such as fresh produce, bread, eggs, and cheese,” McNinch said.
As a thank you for supporting the program, each sponsor receives recognition throughout the market season. Their logo is featured on every Senior Bucks voucher and change voucher, highlighted on social media platforms and promotional flyers, and they are offered a booth space at the market to promote their business.
“This is a unique benefit, as the Escalon Farmer’s Market does not typically allow soliciting or businesses that do not create, grow, raise, or produce their own products to participate as vendors,” McNinch noted. “The amazing thing about our community is that our Senior Bucks Sponsors do not contribute because of the small perks we are able to offer them. They support this program because they genuinely believe their donation will help improve the lives of seniors in our community. Their generosity comes from a place of compassion and a desire to make a meaningful difference. I can never thank them enough for believing in the Senior Bucks Program, for supporting the Escalon Farmer’s Market, and for demonstrating what true community partnership looks like. Their generosity has helped make this program a success, and I hope they know just how much of an impact they have made on the lives of our local seniors.”
With the finale around the corner, McNinch also wanted to recognize the Event Sponsors for this past season. They were: Escalon Small Animal Clinic, South San Joaquin Irrigation District, Escalon Family Dental, MVP Welding INC., and NAPA Auto Parts.
“As is often the case in a small town like Escalon, it is no coincidence that these are the very same businesses and nonprofit organizations that step up time and again to support countless community events throughout the year,” added McNinch. “They consistently give their time, resources, and financial support because they are deeply invested in the people and future of our community.”
The 2026 Escalon Farmer’s Market finale will be hosted on Wednesday, Aug. 19 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with vendors primarily set up on Main Street, between First and Second streets. There will be a handful of vendors near the Main Street stage area, as well as the food court trucks set up in the paved parking area near the corner of First and Main.
“The evening will feature live music by The Indecisives, an all-female youth alternative rock band and the 2025 MAMA (Modesto Area Music Awards) Winner for Best Youth Band,” McNinch shared. “We will also distribute our final 50 Senior Bucks vouchers to eligible seniors, available on a first-come, first-served basis.”
The Aug. 19 event also will feature another new offering.
“We’re excited to debut the Escalon Lions Club Beer, Wine & Seltzer Booth at the Farmer’s Market for the very first time. This new addition will give guests another refreshing option to enjoy while they shop, dine, and listen to live music,” explained McNinch. “While we’re expanding the market experience, our commitment to providing a fun, safe, and family-oriented event remains unchanged. We believe this addition will enhance the atmosphere while continuing to make the market a welcoming destination for families and community members of all ages.”
Those attending the finale will have the opportunity to purchase and enjoy food and sweet treats while browsing more than 40 artisanal, cottage food, boutique, youth, and nonprofit vendors, offering everything from handcrafted goods and locally made products to fresh foods and unique gifts.
“We hope the community will come out to celebrate another successful season, support our incredible local vendors, enjoy an evening of live entertainment, and help us thank the sponsors and volunteers who make the Escalon Farmer’s Market possible,” McNinch said.
