After nearly a decade, the forces behind the beloved Farmers Market at Hayground School in Bridgehampton have decided not to reopen the Market.
“We reached this extraordinarily tough conclusion in the face of a dwindling number of vendors attending our weekly Hayground Farmers Market,” noted Tony Hitchcock, the school’s Treasurer.
Hayground School’s Jon Snow established the Farmers Market in 2009 to provide a place where students could sell produce and seedlings that were grown in the school’s garden, as well as offer a spot where people could gather to not only support local purveyors and farmers, but also connect with other community members.
“This decision was further reinforced by the departure of our Market Manager, Ella Engel-Snow, who following several years of tremendous service is leaving to pursue other interests,” Hitchcock explained.
At the height of the Market, the popular event transformed Hayground into the “summer town square” of Bridgehampton – with farmers, fishermen, vintners, students, and other home-grown producers showcasing their amazing products. To really give it that community feel, Hayground invited musicians to perform, authors to lead readings, and even hosted talks featuring local residents.
“The Hayground Farmers Market began as a learning tool for our students, and grew into a weekly community gathering that embodied the familial and farm-to-table nature of our East End and Hayground communities,” Snow said. “We’re all so grateful to our vendors, regulars, and kids for making the seed of a dream into such a fantastic reality.”
While the Hayground Farmers Market has closed its “doors” for good, the Hayground community hopes locals and visitors still support local farmers, vintners, fishermen, and artisans by visiting East End Farmers Markets and farmstands.
To learn when local Farmers Markets are opening, click here.