MONROE, CT — Fans of the Monroe Farmers’ Market cast enough votes in an online contest to propel it to rankings of first in the Northeast and third in the nation.
“We’re grateful to everybody who took the time to cast their votes in support of our farmers’ market,” said Kelly Plunkett, Monroe’s market manager. “Our goal was number one in the State. To get any further than that was a plus.”
The 13th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration, a contest hosted by the American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition, included more than 2,000 markets across the nation, attracting over 1 million votes from supporters.
The national event ran from June 21 through Sept. 19, 2021, before winners were declared for the “People’s Choice” category, along with recognition of the top markets in five regions nationwide.
The Monroe Farmers’ Market received a total of 4,400 votes.
“We love that the community shares our love for this market,” Plunkett said. “To get 4,400 votes was never expected.”
Monroe received $1,000 for its third place finish in the “People’s Choice” category, which Plunkett said will be used for programming next season.
Aside from fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, the Monroe Farmers’ Market’s vendors sell baked goods, prepared foods, flowers, herbs, handmade soaps, goats milk products, cheese, honey, maple syrup, jam, pies, seafood, eggs and more.
The market is held on the green in front of Monroe Town Hall every Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.
A news release from the American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition shared some comments from residents who frequent the Monroe Farmers’ Market:
“Best market in the area with the most dedicated volunteers and the greatest vendors. One stop shopping for most of my weekly groceries.”
“Grateful to have this in our town! It is so well organized, produce is fresh and the variety of products sold is all locally sourced — which I love! Supporting our local farmers and small business owners is very important to our family. I especially love the coming together of our community to experience this market every Friday.”
“I grew up farm to table in Ireland and (having lived in NYC for the last 20 years) moving to Monroe the market was a welcome find. Blown away the first day I visited. I would highly recommend a visit.”
