The return of summer marks the return of the Millbrook Farmer’s Market.
The annual event, held on the Village Green, showcases produce from local vendors and those in surrounding areas. Carol Thompson, an economic development coordinator for the city, said a citizen contacted the city requesting to bring a market to Millbrook about four years ago.
“Turns out it is pretty popular,” Thompson said. “It’s more than a market, it’s a social event.”
Attendees get a chance to mingle about, but it’s a gathering for the farmers as well. Greg Bennett and his wife Jan own Bennett Growers in Wetumpka, specializing in vegetables.
The two have been to various markets in locations such as Montgomery and Tallassee, but Bennett said he and his wife enjoy going to Millbrook.
“We both grew up in Millbrook so we get to come back and see old faces,” he said.
Thompson said the market has been in the area for three years and has been successful, giving some credit to the location.
“It brings vitality to the heart of Millbrook,” she said.
Some markets come with special attractions, with the first of the 2012 season featuring animals from the Alabama Wildlife Federation. Events in the past have featured grilling and live music and Thompson said she anticipates those returning.
Jackie Champion attended the first edition of the market this year in late May with her mother Johnnie Bell Kilpatrick. Champion’s goal for the day was to obtain some cantaloupe and watermelon, but when that was unsuccesful she turned to strawberries, cucumbers and tomatoes.
“We got a little bit of everything,” she said.
The freshness of the produce is one reason Champion came to the market, along with supporting the local farmers.
“It’s important to keep people growing,” she said. “And we always like to support Millbrook, it’s our home.”
The Millbrook Farmer’s Market will run every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. until Aug. 28.