Joys of Kentlands: the Main Street Farmers’ and Artists’ Market

One of the many things that makes Kentlands just a bit different, and more than a bit special, is our weekly Farmers’ and Artists’ Market. The Market is open from 9 AM to 2 PM every Saturday, all year ’round and rain or shine. It makes the City of Gaithersburg park that includes Pavilion and grounds at the intersection of Main Street, Midtown Road, and Hart Road something special by bringing their produce and products to us.

In the summer months, it attracts a real variety of farmers, artists, artisans, bakers, distillers, florists, and such so that its vendors spread from the Pavilion across the park’s lawn on fine summer days. A wide variety of products are available. The food and agricultural side of the market often includes a nice assortment of fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, herbs and spices as well as unique condiments, cut flowers and potted plants, baked goods, crab cakes, dog treats, specialty meats, pickles, eggs, rice, and honey. The artistic side includes jewelry, photographs, health and beauty products, blown glass, knitwear, quilts, purses, woodworking items, clothing, children’s accessories, yard art, and more!

Main Street Pavilion & Park

Both the vendors and the customers are fewer in number during the winter and things tend to concentrate inside the shelter of the Pavilion’s roof but the availability of fresh vegetables, specialty meats, and Alan Kresse’s crab cakes, even in winter, make a visit worthwhile on any given Saturday.

Locals find fresh produce year ’round at the Kentlands Farmer’s Market

The market vendors accept Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Fruit and Vegetable Check Program (FVC), and Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) checks as appropriate.

The Market operates under the City’s jurisdiction and vendors must have a City permit to sell there. Applications are accepted throughout the year with the current registration cycle being for the 2018 – 19 seasons. The City gives a priority to returning vendors for continuity. Early applicants also have a registration advantage as the number of slots are limited and, once filled, are filled for the season.