Longleaf Market

Coming Back!!

The Longleaf Farmers’ Market is coming back to downtown Thursdays, this fall. Our first year was a bit of a learning experience but grew well during spring and we look forward to opening strong.

Last year Longleaf’s market operated under a conditional permit from the county but we expect approval of standard permit to be issued soon. That allowed the market to open in early November. Florida grows most of the nation’s winter vegetables so that’s perfect timing for local produce.

With the Thursday afternoon schedule and new cafe, we want families to come down after school for fresh food and activities then stick around for a bite to eat. In addition to fresh vegetables and other food items this year’s market will have a stronger focus on events and community. Kids activities will be available every week and we will have a rotating schedule of community groups and schools in attendance. Occasionally, market days will be added to coincide with community events such as the passed event on Nov. 1, the Longleaf Homes on Parade.

Market management will be shifting this year with Brenda and Bret Tobey running the market on a weekly basis. The big push will be more aggressive marketing and vendor recruitment. If you have any requests or recommendations for vendors, please send an email to longleafmarket@gmail.com, or call Rose at (727)808-2440. A revamped website, www.longleafmarket.com, will have vendor applications, directions and market information. After the market opens, we’ll post the weekly list of participating vendors and community groups.

Finally, In the interest of being “green” we’ll recycle your campaign yardisgns for use promoting the market. Send an email to longleafmarket@gmail.com and we’ll come by after the primary to pick them up.