Shop locally at Surf City Farmers Market

For the second year in a row, residents and visitors interested in shopping locally will be able to check out some of the area’s garden-fresh produce and artisanal food and craft vendors at the Surf City Farmers Market. The event, which supports the Surf City Volunteer Fire Co. and EMS, will be held every Monday at the firehouse, located at 713 North Long Beach Blvd., starting June 27 through Aug. 29, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Photo via SCVFC
Locally grown produce will be plentiful.

The locale quickly became a “weekly gathering spot” for people to connect with friends and area businesses last year, Surf City EMT Jennifer Collins said, noting it was the first farmers market to be held on Long Beach Island.

“The fire department wanted to highlight local business and raise awareness for supporting small business on the Island and in the area,” she said. “It enables our first responders to meet the public and allows them to see us and ask questions in non-emergency situations. It allows us to give back and be a part of the community.”

Meet-and-greets will give attendees a chance to get to know the police officers, firefighters and rescue personnel. The Surf City Police Department will be hosting a Fill the Cruiser event to benefit the local food pantry, and will also provide child car seat checks.

The market is set to include some new vendors and nonprofits and additional farms as well as live music some weeks.

“I don’t think people necessarily realize the farming culture of this area, so by bringing it to the Island, hopefully people will become more educated in the area’s rich history and heritage,” Collins stated. “The fire company and EMS care about people’s health and well-being, so this is a great way to promote healthy eating and a healthier lifestyle.”

Surf City Farmers Market canvas tote bags, designed by local artist Keith Feldman and produced by NJ Logowear, will be available for purchase. All proceeds will benefit the fire company and EMS.

— Kelley Anne Essinger

This article was published in The SandPaper.