Sophie Tate began her job as market manager of the Lawrence Farmers’ Market in early 2021. She grew up in Lawrence, graduating from Free State High School before pursing a degree at Skidmore College. She then earned an MA in Public Health and Environmental Health.
With its origin in 1979, Lawrence Farmers’ Market is the oldest continuously running market in Kansas. From the start, it was a “producers only” market. All product inputs are grown, prepared, or crafted in Kansas within 50 miles of Lawrence. Shoppers will find artisans as well as food producers among the 50 vendors who will begin the season this spring.
Tate proudly explains that the Lawrence Farmers’ Market supports social, physical, and economic health in the Lawrence community.
Social: The Farmers’ Market is a place to gather and to meet friends, to eat and to buy. The crowd is diverse and family-friendly. Find music, share information, and exchange ideas.
Physical: The Market is a destination for all ages and all abilities. Enjoy the outdoors and green space while finding nutritious foods.
Economic: After shopping for premier goods at the Farmers’ Market, buyers can then spend time in Downtown Lawrence. The low cost to participate allows more vendors to sell, introduces new products, and makes businesses more sustainable. Double Up food coupons support the SNAP program with fresh produce.
The Saturday market will begin for the season on April 10, 2021, and conclude on November 20. A Tuesday market will run from May 4 to October 26. The markets will be open in all kinds of weather.
On Saturday, markets are located downtown on New Hampshire Street from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. On Tuesday, shoppers can find the vendors in South Park from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
