Asta Mackevicieni could buy produce at the grocery store, but she prefers the fresh air and friendly atmosphere at the La Grange Farmers Market.
“I like the fresh produce and just the community gathering,” the La Grange resident said as she selected tomatoes from a bin at the market on Thursday.
“It’s an experience. I come here every Thursday,” she said.
It’s about half-way through the season during which the market at La Grange Road and Harris Avenue operates. It opened May 5 and continues is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays through Oct. 27.
“I just enjoy the selling the products and meeting all the friendly people,” said Katie Yoder, who sold muffins, pies and breads. She travels from Shipshewana, Ind., to sell her baked goods at the market.
She also is a vendor at the Western Springs French Market.
Nancy Cummings, executive director of the La Grange Business Association, which organizes the market, said it has more than doubled in size over the last couple of years. It had 12 vendors in 2014, but this year there are about 25 vendors selling things such as handmade soap, doughnuts and dog treats. The market increased in size after the business association took over running it from the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce.
Cummings said the farmer’s market brings in people who might also stop at a local store to make a purchase.
Studies have shown that farmer’s markets can boost local economies.
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The Farmers Market Coalition, which is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting farmers markets, echoes Cumming’s assertion. The coalition estimates that for every $100 spent at a farmers market, $62 stays in the local economy, and $99 stays in state.
Chuck Barman, whose business is Swing Belly Farms, sells fresh produce and eggs. He doesn’t mind traveling from Lake Geneva, Wis., to attend the La Grange market. He enjoys getting to know his customers.
“The people over here are so friendly. It’s like family,” he said.
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