Vendors praise move of Farmers Market to Town Square

Based on first impressions, the relocation of Glenwood’s Wednesday farmers market from Glenwood Lake Park to Town Square is going to be a big hit with vendors and patrons.

The first farmers market of the 2018 season in Glenwood - held last Wednesday -generated numerous positive reviews.
“I’ve had a lot of positive feedback. I didn’t hear one negative,” market manager Jeni Kirsch said. “I think all in all, it seemed like a really nice sense of community on the square. I’ve had several people call me since and inquire about having a weekly booth there.”

Kirsch, the owner of JWren clothing boutique on the west side of Town Square, spearheaded the relocation of the market in an effort to bring more activity to Glenwood’s downtown business district.

Staged on the lawn directly west of the county courthouse, the market has space for 32 vendors, Kirsch said. Sixteen vendors set up for the first market, selling everything from jams and jellies to baked goods and hanging yard ornaments.

“I love it (new location),” said Jody Smith, the baker and seller of whole-grain breads and bakery. “I think it’s going to be better for the community and better for the vendors.”

Debra Swirmicky and her husband Mark of Glenwood came to the market to sell honey products they produce for their business - Lone Star Meadow.

Debra Swirmicky said she fully supports the move to the square.

“We did it before (in Glenwood) but left for awhile because it was going down,” she said. “But, when they moved it to the square, we decided to come back. They have a good group of people promoting it and that’s important. It’s all about community.”

Among the market shoppers last week was Glenwood Mayor Ron Kohn, who carefully declined to say if he believes moving the market to the square is a good idea.

“I’m not a judge, I’m the mayor,” Kohn said with a smile. “Time will tell.”

Kirsch said because it’s still early in the season, fresh produce vendors were in short supply at last week’s market, but more will surface in the coming weeks as local gardeners and farmers begin harvesting their vegetables.

Kirsch also noted that the Glenwood Public Library is holding special activities Wednesday evenings and she’s hopeful other events and activities will be staged on the square in conjunction with the market.

One change that could be on the horizon is extending the hours for the market. Currently, the market runs from 4 - 6:30 p.m., but Kirsch said there’s been discussion about having it open longer to accommodate Glenwood-area residents who work out of town.

Another enhancements being considered include bringing in live musicians and providing space for non-profits to share information about their organizations.