The Charlotte County Farmer’s Market at Drakes Branch is set to reopen for the season next month, according to Farmer’s Market Adviser Bob Jones.

Last year the market, which will open this year on May 5, boasted a massive turnout during its first season at the Drakes Branch Pavilion with an average of 250-300 customers during each market event.

For the new season, Jones said the market will be held on Fridays, as well as the first Saturday in each month in Drakes Branch.

“Everybody is excited about it,” he said. “We’re really looking forward to working with the Town of Drakes again.”

This year, the farmer’s market will be open on Fridays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and on the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m.-noon. 

“We need folks to turn out,” Jones said.

Last year’s opening day drew a crowd of 287 visitors to Drakes Branch.

“I was really excited about the turnout,” Produce Supplier Brick Goldman said last year. “We didn’t have any idea how many people were going to come, and to see the crowd of people come through, we were just amazed.”

While the farmer’s market will offer old favorites, such as fresh produce, homemade baked and canned goods, jams and jelly, local herbs, herb crafts and Amish wood-crafted products, Jones said a new vendor will be in attendance this year providing beef, pork, poultry and farm-fresh eggs.

This year’s farmer’s market will run to September.

Jones said there is a possibility of specialty hours during the holiday seasons. Specialty items may include pumpkins and cider, he said.

Last May, Jones said the idea behind the farmer’s market came from the idea of it serving as a one-stop shop for the town.

“We’re always looking to expand the opportunities in the county,” Jones said.

For more information, contact Bob Jones at (434) 542-5884 or visit the Charlotte County Farmer’s Market on Facebook for weekly updates.