Depot Farmers Market Staff 2023 Vendors and Staff -- 2023 Depot Farmers Market
The Farmers Market at the Depot opens its 12th season June 19th, 2024
Join us on Wednesday, June 19th, at the Depot in downtown Rural Retreat. The Depot will host our community farmers market again this year, providing a place for our local farmers, bakers, and artisans to offer their goods.
Regular hours will be 3 to 6 PM each Wednesday, through September 11, 2024.
Vendors may only offer locally made or produced goods--no resale items.
All food items must be packaged and labeled following health department requirements.
There is no fee for vendors. Tents, tables and chairs are available at no charge on first-come first-served basis.
If you wish to become a vendor please contact Michael Cole, Market Manager, at 276-620-2572, or email your question to info@therrdepot.com.
NOTE: The Evelyn Lahman History Museum will be open for visitors, and offers guided tours during Market hours. Our Delightful Docents will lead visitors through the history of this historic landmark building and its place in our Community's history.
History: The inaugural Farmer's Market at Rural Retreat Depot launched on Wednesday July 3, 2013 and closed in September, after a very successful first season under the leadership of Amy McBride, Chair, and Dr. Michael Spraker, President. The number of weekly vendors ranged from 10 to 20 and the customer count was usually around 200. Wayne Smelser of Creggar Farms was one of the Farmers’ Market vendors. Smelser said “The food you buy at the farmers market is seasonal. It is fresh and delicious and reflects the flavors of our area. Most food found at the farmers market is minimally processed, and many of our farmers go to great lengths to grow the most nutritious produce possible by using sustainable techniques, picking produce right before the market, and growing heirloom varieties. Buying directly from farmers gives your local farmer a better return for their produce and gives them a fighting chance in today’s economy. Shopping at our farmers market is a wonderful opportunity to taste the diversity of our community, to eat healthy, and to support your local farmers.” You can help our Farmer's Market grow by contributing to the Depot today.