Taking the next step in establishing itself in the local area, the Small Town Roots Farmer’s Market hosted a ribbon cutting on Saturday, July 21 as it officially joined the Escalon Chamber of Commerce.

Started earlier this summer, the market runs every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to noon and will be staged weekly through October.

Organizer Andrea McCoy said they anticipate adding new vendors throughout the summer and she has been pleased with the event as it has started to gain a foothold and become more well-known. She does want to remind people, however, that it is every week and encouraged them to come see the variety of vendors.

“We want to provide quality produce to the community,” she said, adding that it will go off, rain or shine, through October.

They host it in the morning and wrap up by noon, before the heat of the summer day kicks in.

She thanked the vendors that have been regular participants and also said she was happy to be a part of the Chamber of Commerce to help support the business community.

“I want to thank Andrea and everybody involved for getting this together,” said Mayor Jeff Laugero, who helped McCoy cut the ribbon. “This will be a very good addition to the community.”

McCoy said the key is being consistent, having vendors come every week and having the crowd come to support them.

From fresh produce to flowers, vegan and specialty items, locally grown herbs and spices, there are plenty of farmer-type booths and other vendors feature crafts, beverages and more. Music is part of the festivities and the face painting booth has been a regular staple as well.

“I hope it takes off, this is a good thing for the community,” said Jenee Lattig of Victorian Rose, offering fresh cut flowers with partner Justina Percey.

“It’s nice to be local, too,” Percey added, noting that they often travel to set up shop but are happy to journey just to McHenry Avenue for the Saturday morning market.

The Small Town Roots Farmer’s Market is at 2996 McHenry.