The North Chili Farmer's Market has been operating every Saturday morning from July through October as a community outreach project at the North Chili United Methodist Church for the past 27 years. The suggestion for a farm market came in 1976 from several church members including Judy Russell, owner of Whittier Farms and a continuous participant at the market. In the first year, the market was located on the northwest corner of the church in the parking lot with a total of 6 vendors participating. At the suggestion of the vendors, the market was moved to its present location along the circular drive to provide better visibility. Each year the Farmer's Market has continued to grow, both in the number of vendors and the customers it has attracted. Five vendors have been market participants for over 20 years. On peak Saturdays, over 1,100 cars have been accommodated in the 100 space parking lot and the adjacent 'back forty.' This year the church is celebrating its Sesquicentennial with special events planned each month. On Saturday, October 4, several activities will occur during market hours, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Church members invite the community to stop in and enjoy the market atmosphere. |
