PARKERSBURG - Organizers of the Downtown Farmers' Marketplace are looking for vendors for the second annual Downtown Winter Market that opens for the season on Nov. 1.
The winter market, which debuted last year, will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month through March at the West Virginia University at Parkersburg downtown campus, 705 Market St.
"We are fortunate to have WVU-P's support," said Ann Conageski, development director for the city of Parkersburg. "We think the market will complement the new culinary school scheduled to open in January 2013."
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A scene from last season’s Downtown Winter Market. This year’s market will open Nov. 1 at the downtown campus of West Virginia University at Parkersburg on Market Street.
Organizers are recruiting vendors for the Winter Market.
"We've already had several vendors commit, some of which will be able to provide the market with winter produce," said Rickie Yeager, planning administrator for the city of Parkersburg. "If you or someone you know makes jams, jellies, baked goods, soaps and sundries, arts and crafts, seasonal items, organizers encourage you to consider becoming a vendor."
Booth space is $10 a day or $40 for the season, Yeager said.
Fact Box
If You Go
What: Downtown Farmers' Marketplace's Winter Market
When: Set to open Nov. 1
Where: the West Virginia University at Parkersburg downtown campus, 705 Market St.
Spots are still open for those who are interested in having a vendor table at the market.
"This is a great opportunity for people to sell their wares, especially since the market will be open during the holiday season," Yeager said.
While prospective vendors are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible, organizers will take applications throughout the season.
The market will also feature community artisans and musicians this year.
"The winter market will be a great venue for showcasing local talent," Yeager said.
A brief informational meeting for prospective vendors, artisans and musicians will be held 6 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Blennerhassett Hotel. Free parking is available next to the hotel.
Applications can also be downloaded at www.parkersburgfarmersmarket.com.
The winter market will feature a new educational program this year. The programming is made possible by a grant from the Highmark Foundation's Let's Move! Cities and Towns Partnership program.
Participants will enjoy motivational speakers, hands-on cooking demonstrations and family-fun activities. Classes will be held from 11 a.m. to noon at the winter market.
"We are thrilled to have the winter market back again this year," said Carrie Nesselrode, executive director of Downtown PKB. "Along with the winter market, I hope people will check out all the other unique businesses downtown that will be open as well."
Prospective vendors, artists and musicians can contact Jay Fisher at 304-424-8518 or at jfisher@parkersburg-wv.com
Among highlights from the 2012 Winter Market:
* More than $5,400 in sales in three Saturdays
* More than 2,000 people visited the market on its first day in January.
* More than 15 vendors participated each day.
