Market in the Park sprouts up every Thursday

Jul. 1—GROVE CITY — Every Thursday in the Grove City summers for years now you'll find a farmers market set up in the park, full of food, crafts and an occasional prize to help people enjoy the summer and fall afternoons.

This year, the market is run by two new faces, May and Clay Caffaro. The Caffaros were regulars when they were approached about taking over. May said they discussed it between themselves for about 10 minutes before making their decision.

"My parents took me here all the time when I was younger, so I've always loved it," May said. "I really like homesteading, farming and helping the community so I saw this as a great opportunity."

May wants to be able to keep the market strong in the community, while also adding new elements to help it grow.

The market features homemade and home grown products like fruits, vegetables, herbs, milk, cheese, coffee, meat, baked goods, raw honey and olive oil.

"I try to make it out here every week, especially this year," Grove City resident Heath Rodgers said. "I found out about all this last year and I want to eat healthier and figured I can support some local farmers while I do that. I try to get some fruits to snack on and some veggies to make with dinner. Then when I start to get low I swing back out here on Thursday."

Several crafters sell various goods as well; 17 shops are signed up. There is even a "kids craft" where May will bring paint for the kids to paint. The market also regularly features raffles for completing little tasks such as liking their Facebook page or spending $15, which will be the next market's goal.

"We are also trying to make the whole event more fun. We are getting Pine Township Engine Company to bring out a firetruck for the kids. We are hoping to have haircuts and manicures available at the park," Caffaro said. "Not everyone can be a vendor, so we want to have others as engaged as possible."

"Our mission is to support the local farmers and give them a direct line to customers, cutting out the middleman," Caffaro said. "It's all about the community."

Ty Kohler can be contacted at [email protected].

Market oin the park is set up in Grove City Memorial Park every Thursday from 3 until 6 p.m. (except for the 4th of July) and will continue until Oct. 31.