From August 3–9, UConn Extension is proud to join communities across the country in celebrating National Farmers Market Week—a time to recognize the vital role that farmers markets play in supporting local agriculture, strengthening community connections, and increasing access to fresh, nutritious food. Connecticut is home to over 100 farmers markets, each one a vibrant hub where farmers, food producers, and neighbors come together. These markets are more than just places to shop, they are spaces where relationships grow, traditions are shared, and local economies thrive.
At UConn Extension, we work with farmers, market managers, and community organizations to support the success of Connecticut’s farmers markets. Through programs in food safety, nutrition education, small farm sustainability, and community development, we help ensure that markets remain resilient, inclusive, and impactful.
Where to Find Us During Farmers Market Week:
- August 3 – Tolland Farmers Market with Ginger Jenne of Grown ConNECTed, celebrating the program’s recent expansion into Tolland.
- August 5 – Learn about our new market pricing app, developed through our farm risk management initiative. It collects real-time pricing data from markets across the state to help farmers make informed decisions. Read the full article.
- August 8 – Join Emily Picard and 4-H intern Max McCarthy at the Monroe Farmers Market for a Thank a Farmer program. Youth visitors will decorate thank-you cards and learn about farming. 4-H Volunteer of the Year Dave Buck of Guardian’s Farm will also be there.
- August 9 –
- Umekia Taylor and Hannah Morillo-Galindo will be at the Grand Opening of the Meriden Farmers Market with Chef Kashia, presenting a cooking demonstration.
- Heather Peracchio and Juliana Restrepo Marin will be at the Danbury Farmers’ Market offering bilingual nutrition classes and cooking demos at 9:30 and 10:30 AM.
- UConn Extension Master Gardeners will be at the Milford Farmers’ Market answering your gardening questions.
Why Farmers Markets Matter:
- They provide direct income to local farmers and producers.
- They offer fresh, seasonal, and often organic products.
- They foster community engagement and education.
- They support food access through SNAP, WIC, and other nutrition incentive programs.
We encourage everyone to:
- Visit a local farmers market and meet the people who grow your food.
- Try a new fruit or vegetable and ask the farmer how to prepare it.
- Share your farmers market experience on social media using #FarmersMarketWeek and tag @UConnExtension.
Let’s celebrate the farmers, vendors, volunteers, and shoppers who make Connecticut’s farmers markets flourish. Together, we’re building a healthier, more connected, and more sustainable future.