Wednesday Farmers Market Under the Vine Off to a Great Start!

Downtown Bentonville Inc. hosted the first-ever Bentonville Wednesday Farmers Market Under the Vine on Jun. 6 at the 8^th Street Market, showcasing local farmers and produce.

The Vine, which was designed to recall the traditional covered zones found in historic markets, not only protected the produce, but offered a feeling as though the market existed in a true outdoor venue—a space designed for the sort of gathering that had come together under its roof.

There were over 20 vendors at the market, representing Bentonville businesses as well as local farmers and artisans.  One vendor told me she had a good problem: “I think I’ll be out of produce before the end of the evening!”

Dylan Taylor is the DBI Farmers Market manager, and he said the timing of the market, as well as its location, could only stand to further serve Bentonville residents.

“We are excited to be able to provide a mid-week market to our community and our farmers at the 8th Street Market,” Taylor said. “This will aid in increasing access to fresh foods while providing our vendors another platform to increase sales. Our hope is to grow and develop in tandem with the 8th Street Market; establishing a second, highly visible market for Bentonville.”

Among attendees at the market were several instructors from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, who said they were excited to be able to implement local produce into the week’s lessons, and into the dishes they planned to prepare personally.

Across the way, Bike Rack Brewing was bustling with cyclists, market attendees, and those with a general interest in really good, really cold beer.

The Farmers Market Under the Vine is a weekly event taking place all summer, Wednesdays from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the 8^th Street Market, located at 801 SE 8^th St. in Bentonville. Make plans to join us next time, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram  for updates.