First Ribbon Cutting. In this picture, taken in 1987, Mayor Harry J. Parrish Sr., is officially inaugurating the First Farmers Market in Historic Manassas.People say that April is the month of "rebirth, regrowth and renewal", and is true. With the arrival of spring, the trees fill the landscape with beautiful colors. Birds look for places to rebuild their nests and hatch their young. April is also the start of longer, warmer days, and for many, it is the best time for outdoor activities.
For us, this month also represent the beginning of one of the most beloved and popular events in our community, The Farmers Market, which will open on April 6 with the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, carried out by the Mayor, Michelle Davis-Younger, Council Members, the Board of Directors of Historic Manassas, Inc., special guests and participants.
The Farmers Market is highly anticipated by residents and visitors due to the variety of products that can be purchased. There are fresh fruits and vegetables, milk and cheese, jellies, candies, honey, meats, flowers and much more to choose from.
Something for someone. The Farmers Market offers more than vegetables and fruits. It´s also a great place to buy beautiful seasonal flowers. Since the Farmers Market started in 1987, it has grown and earned an excellent reputation that reaches far beyond Manassas.
“I remember that in that year (1987) we had about 10 participants, between sellers and producers. But now, we have more than 50, and many of them have been participating for several years now,” recalls Mark Olsen, President of the Historic Manassas, Inc.
According to Mr. Olsen, for many residents of the Historic Downtown, The Market represents an advantage.
“There is no grocery store in Historic Downtown where residents can shop without getting in their car and driving to a grocery store. But having a centrally located Farmers Market, with regular hours, allows people to buy fresh local produce”, Olsen noted.
Different locations, same concept
The Market over Church Street. The Farmers Market has rotated over the years. In this photo, the banner advertised its location on Church Street.Manassas Farmers Market was originally held in a parking lot on West Street but has had different locations over the years. Currently, The Farmers Market has been held at the Harris Pavilion since 2006.
According to Mark Olsen, when the construction of Harris Pavilion began, the Farmers Market was moved to the parking lot over Church Street. Then, when it was completed, the Market moved back to the Pavilion.
"And that's when we started the Saturday Market, which (at the beginning) was in the parking lot where the Water Tower is next to the Train Station”, remembers Mr. Olsen.
Currently, Saturday Market take place at the commuter parking lot located at 9024 Prince William St., and just like the Farmers Market, it is held from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.
As for the Saturday Market, Mark Olsen ensures that there is always something for everyone.
“There is a lot of space for vendors. Plenty of parking, and visitors can shop and support local producers and merchants. It's a great opportunity for everyone", he said.
Bottom line, mark your calendars for Thursday, April 6, through October 26, and Saturday, April 8, through November 25, because the Farmers Market is back!
