Representatives from the Purdue Extension Office, Frankfort Main Street and the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce held a vendor call out meeting Wednesday evening to judge the interest of a new direction for the Frankfort Farmer’s Market.
The market will now be part of Thursday Thunder, which is held the first and third Thursday in downtown Frankfort from 5:30 to 8 p.m. through September. A majority of the downtown merchants have agreed to stay open until 8 p.m. to help encourage individuals to come to the downtown and shop local.
“I think we’re going to have at least five vendors and I’m excited about that,” said Frankfort Main Street Executive Director Kim Stevens. “We had someone come in today and actually took the application and will be back with that tomorrow. They’re passing the word along. So, who knows by the 16th we might have 10 (vendors), I hope.”
The first Farmer’s Market is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, at Veterans Park. Vendors will be set up in the grassy area and will be able to use the alleyway between the park and the remaining mural to help use for setup purposes.
This market is scheduled to replace the old Farmer’s Market that was held on Saturday mornings in front of the Clinton County Courthouse and in the parking lot at Ivy Tech Community College.
According to Purdue Extension Office Educator Adam Shanks, there will be no cost for any vendor. However, every vendor will need insurance plus agree to a contract that will require a commitment to four markets.
“Unfortunately, there were several people that we knew who had already picked up applications that couldn’t make it tonight,” said Shanks. “But I think the group that was here is very committed and serious and have participated in the past. I think they’re excited about the changes as well.”
Shanks said after the four markets, things will be re-evaluated to see if the market should continue.
“If you’re interested in being a vendor, I would suggest that you contact the Chamber of Commerce or Frankfort Main Street or the Purdue Extension Office as quickly as you can and get that application filled out,” said Stevens. “The booth space is free.”
Stevens added there is a possibility that a Farmer’s Market could be held during the Hot Dog Festival on July 26 and 27.