The Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market opened for their 15th season on Saturday, April 1st to a record number of vendors, shoppers, and sales. This marks their second year under the management of Visit Statesboro and second year in the venue located directly behind the Visitors Center on South Main Street.
Nearly 2,400 people gathered Saturday morning to shop while mingling with folks from as far away as Atlanta, Athens, and Brunswick. The high attendance numbers included a greater presence of Georgia Southern students and surpassed 2022’s opening day by 800 and November’s Shopping by Lantern Light was eclipsed by over 1,000 people.
Opening day sales also surpassed any other day in the Market’s history. Vendors reported sales of $35,604.07 for Saturday which is up $10,000 from 2022. “Record attendance and record sales show that the Farmers Market has a tremendous economic impact on Bulloch County,” said Visit Statesboro President, Becky Sanders. “Saturday Markets are now a weekly tradition for friends and families who gather to enjoy shopping, entertainment, dining, and educational exhibits while visitors also learn more about our community.”
Farmers presented an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruit, eggs, and milk with some booths selling out completely. “We were very pleased to be back at the Saturday Market,” said Jim Shannon, Poor Robin Gardens. “It was a great day for us, the Market, and for the community and we are most grateful as we look forward to an awesome season.”
Honey, baked goods, coffee, flowers, candles, and jewelry were also popular with shoppers. “For us, the opening day of the Market was a huge success! We brought more honey than we ever have before and we were completely sold out in two hours,” said Curtis Kimbrell, Humble Bumble Bee Farm.
The Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market operates as a producer/grower market emphasizing the connection between local foods/products and quality of life. The Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the season runs April through November.
“With the continued support of our dedicated team, Visit Statesboro’s leadership, and enthusiastic community, the Market is truly blossoming into the heart of the Blue Mile,” said Market Manager, Willow Farmer. “We are thrilled to invite everyone to revel in the bountiful offerings of the Statesboro MainStreet Farmers Market.”
