As the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market is well into the 2019 market season, the board of directors would like to take this time to thank residents and visitors of Rehoboth Beach and surrounding communities for their support over the 13 years of the market.
The RBFM is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization with one paid position which is the market master who receives a small compensation. The men and women who set up the vendor tents weekly, answer questions at the Information Tent, schedule the volunteers, obtain Community Tent activities, plant flowers at the entrance to the park, and serve on the BOD are community volunteers.
Since the inaugural opening June 5, 2007, the market has grown from 14 vendors to about 40, and is now recognized by the state as one of the more successful markets. In addition to an increased number of vendors, the season has been lengthened at the request of both our customers and farmers. RBFM is now open from May through October.
Along with a greater variety of local produce we have made additional changes over the years such as: 1) planting seasonal flowers at the entrance to the park; 2) expanding the original Green Tent (now called the Community Tent) to provide a venue for local community organizations to highlight their activities; 3) matching WIC and Senior Coupons so all will have access to fresh produce; 4) promoting local musicians who provide weekly entertainment; 5) coordinating with the Rehoboth Beach Library to hold a story hour for children; 6) holding special monthly raffles of a basket of market products; 7) having a November Holiday Market; and 8) organizing the much-anticipated annual Farm Feast that draws local residents, summer guests and market vendors.
This year, due to inclement weather the sold-out Picnic in the Park was moved on the day of the event to The Covered Bridge Inn, no small feat for Market Master Pat Coluzzi and caterer Blue Moon Restaurant.
The RBFM BOD is aware that as the market has grown, so has the parking along Henlopen Avenue, Columbia Avenue, Sussex and Felton streets, causing minor inconveniences on market day. The BOD thanks the homeowners living on those streets for their understanding, flexibility and continuing support.
With each market season, we are reminded of the countless benefits the RBFM brings to our community. Not only does the market provide access to fresh, locally produced fruit, vegetables, meats and baked goods, it also provides a special place where the community can gather to connect with the vendors, socialize with neighbors, and enjoy music in the park.
For further information or concerns about the market, please contact the board at 302-226-5845, or better yet stop by the Information Tent on any Tuesday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. thru August and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., September and October. You will also find RBFM on Facebook and Twitter.
Marty Johnson
president, Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market Board of Directors
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