Apr 17, 2017 2 min read

CANONSBURG – People are talking, according to Canonsburg Mayor David Rhome.

“There’s a great buzz about the farmers market,” he said. “Everyone keeps asking about it.”

To be held from 3:30 to 7 p.m. May 5 and every Friday through mid-September, the market is returning to the borough for the first time since the early 2000s.

“Our goal is to promote commerce, promote camaraderie and support the farmers and small businesses,” Rhome said.

The borough and chamber of commerce will host the event in the Northwest Savings Bank parking lot at 148 W. Pike St. Parking will be available at Canonsburg United Presbyterian Church and the lot at Jefferson Avenue and West Pike.

More than 14 vendors, anchored by Simmons Farm of McMurray, will carry produce, poultry, beef, eggs, cheese, wine, whiskey, honey, desserts and gifts, among other items. Tables will be set up for shoppers to sit and eat selections from the Gyro Place menu. Vendors will provide assistants to help shoppers carry items to their vehicles.

“People want fresh produce and beautiful flowers. Instead of going to a grocery store, they can come here and get them,” said organizer Lonnie Flood of Miss Maddy’s boutique.

Several people have been working for years to bring the event back to the borough, said Rhome. He and Flood envision a gathering, like the Fourth of July and Oktoberfest celebrations, that brings neighbors together.

They also hope, by drawing people into Canonsburg, their small businesses will see an increase of consumers.

“We’re trying to make it a real family environment where people can hang out,” Flood said. “Then they might want to take a walk through town and try a restaurant or shop at the furniture store.”

As they work to develop and expand the market, the borough and chamber have offered tables to vendors at no cost. Eventually, they want the event to include other attractions, such as themed markets with ethnic food offerings and car cruises.

“There are many things we can do here in town,” Flood said.