PITTSTON — There’s still a month to go before the Tomato Festival, but patrons can get their fair share of tomatoes and other delicious fruits and vegetables at the city’s farmers market.
The market returns Tuesday, July 11 and will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Tuesday until the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.
Fifth year coordinator Mary Angelella said this year the weekly event will focus on getting children more involved.
“Children are out of school, so it’s nice for them to have activities to do,” she said.
A Children’s Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 25 that will feature balloon sculptures, face painting, a sing-a-long from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a visit from Snow White, and growing their own herbs.
Other events for children throughout the season include storytime with Kristen Boettger from the Pittston Memorial Library Aug. 1 and 22, a magic show Aug. 1, exploring the inside of a fire truck and ambulance Aug. 8 and painting Aug. 15, as well as entertainment from a juggler.
Of all the events, Angelella feels exploring the inside of emergency vehicles will be most beneficial for the children.
“I thought maybe the exploring the fire truck and the ambulance will be interesting to a lot of kids because it’s something you see in town and it’s something you hear all the time,” she said. “Some kids might be intimidated by the size of the vehicle and also the noise they make.”
Returning vendors including Brace’s Orchard from Dallas, Dymonds Farm Market & Bakery from Shavertown, Pittston Popcorn, Golombs Greenhouse from Wilkes-Barre and several others.
A new vendor this year is Hidden Creek Vineyard and Winery from Laceyville.
Items for sale throughout the season include potted flowers, apples, cherries, jam, zucchini, breads, lettuce and more.
When fall rolls around, items for sale change to match the season and include apples, pumpkins, cider, and more.
With the farmers market comes the official kickoff for summer in Angelella’s eyes, and she’s eager to see everyone enjoying the event and buying fresh produce.
“It means summertime and it’s just nice to be in an environment where people are out visiting with each other and just enjoying the nice weather,” she said.
