The May Market will be more of an attraction this year, not just a place to pick up fresh, local produce.
The Lincoln University Farmers Market has been hosted downtown the last two years on Madison Street. With lots of events on campus in May, the arrangement allows the university to continue its weekly farmers market while offering the Downtown Jefferson City merchants an extra draw.
“It’s been a really successful partnership,†said Downtown Jefferson City President Stephanie Bell.
This year, the partnership is moving the more than 20 vendors to the 300 block of East High Street.
And themed events and music will be part of each of the four Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.
“We want to make it an experience, not just run in grab your items,†Bell said.
A Kickoff Celebration this Saturday will feature the music of Mike Gorman, Tai Chi demonstrations at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., kids activities for Mother’s Day gifts and a cooking demonstration on healthy breakfasts.
“Kids at the Market†on May 14 will include a youth showcase of musical guests, more Tai Chi demonstrations at 10 and 11 a.m., a kids learning activity “All About Bugs!,†a commercial kitchen tasting of pizza and another cooking demonstration on healthy breakfasts.
The Daves will provide music May 21 for “Know Your Farmer†day, where other activities include the Missouri River Regional Library Bookmobile, a kids learning activity “Composting Fun,†a petting zoo and “Fun Farm Facts.â€
The final theme “Living Health and Seasonal Cooking†on May 28 will feature musical guest Rick Rayburn, commercial kitchen tasting of seasonal fare, a kids learning activity on edible plants, cooking demonstrations on healthy snacks for kids and vendors will provide recipes for their products.
Each week, the library will bring out its giant games in its adjacent courtyard.
“We are so thankful for Lincoln and their established agriculture program and extension food education,†Bell said.