Washington Farmers Market makes its return Thursday

The Washington Farmers Market is kicking off its 33rd year on Thursday in Central Park.

Bob Shepherd, one of the event’s organizers, said that they expect many of the usual bakers and vendors to be on hand selling their products.

“We have indications that there will be more growers this year, too,” Shepherd said.

The back and forth spring weather has Shepherd wondering how much fresh produce will be available Thursday.

“Asparagus has been a good early crop,” he said. “The rhubarb has been good, so there should be some good rhubarb bread and rhubarb pies.”

While the Washington Farmers Market has been going on for 33 years, one rule has always been in place.

“Whatever is at the market has to be grown, made or baked by the person at the market,” Shepherd said. “We don’t allow any resale.

“We have some phenomenal bakers, growers and artists.”

While the state has eased guidelines for public gatherings, Shepherd said they are still taking precautions.

“We request that everybody be cautious and careful,” he said. “We’ve been able to follow the governor’s guidelines.

“Vendors will be using best practices to reduce risk, and we’ll still be spreading out.”

The farmers market gets underway at 5 p.m. with the ringing of the ceremonial cowbell.

“Out of fairness to everyone, no one can start before 5 p.m.,” Shepherd said. “At 5 p.m., everybody’s ready.”

The market wraps up at 7:30 p.m.

The Washington Farmers Market will run every Thursday through Oct. 14.

“It’s a fun time and a chance to see some friends and neighbors you haven’t seen since the last market,” Shepherd said.