EAST LANSING, Mich. — The East Lansing Farmer’s Market (ELFM) will kick off its 2015 season on Sunday, June 7. The 2015 season will run June 7-Oct. 25 on Sundays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Valley Court Park, 280 Valley Court.
The ELFM brings fresh, farm-grown Michigan produce and products to the region, serving more than 1,000 visitors each week. The market takes great pride in its tagline, “100% Homegrown Makes Us Different,” meaning all ELFM vendors are required to grow their own produce or make their own products. A complete list of vendors and information on the 2015 market can be found online at www.cityofeastlansing.com/farmersmarket.
Live musical performances take place at the market each week from 10 a.m. – noon and noon – 2 p.m. Opening day performances will include Steve Pinckney at 10 a.m. and Rob Klajda at noon.
Free Reusable Bag Giveaway, Ringing of the Market BellThe ELFM will give away FREE reusable shopping bags to the first 200 customers. This year's reusable shopping bag features a new handcrafted design. In addition, the ELFM will hold a special ringing of the "market bell" to celebrate the start of the 2015 market season at 10 a.m. with Mayor Nathan Triplett. Members of the media are invited to attend.
SNAP/Bridge Card & Double Up Food Bucks BenefitsThe ELFM accepts SNAP/Bridge cards at the market and allows customers to stretch their dollars with the Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) program. As a result of a grant from the Fair Food Network, the DUFB program "matches" SNAP/Bridge card dollars spent at farmer's markets. Customers will receive a dollar for dollar match (up to $20) that can be spent on fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Michigan. For example, if a customer spends $20 on their SNAP/Bridge Card, they would receive an extra $20 for FREE.