The Shelby Farmers Market is back for its 15th year at the historic Packard Proving Grounds.
By: Kara Szymanski | Shelby-Utica News | Published May 23, 2023
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Shelby Farmers Market has returned for its 15th year.
The market will take place every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct. 14 at the Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. The first market of the season took place last Saturday. The outdoor market happens rain or shine.
“The front lawn of the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site is such an awesome location for a farmers market,” Mary Anne Demo, executive director of the Packard Proving Grounds, said by email. “It will be great to see all our favorite vendors again this year, plus lots of new ones. It’s always a little bit different each week. This time of year, there will be lots of flowers and plants, plus some early things like asparagus, rhubarb, micro greens, radishes and such,” she said.
Alan White, of the Roaming Hills Bison Farm, will be returning as a full-season vendor this year.
“The Packard Proving Grounds are an absolutely outstanding venue and the people are second to none. It’s difficult to find a well-organized venue or farmers market with such a large turnout, but they made an investment in their community and vendors, and it shows,” he said in an email.
Proceeds from the farmers market help support the Packard Motor Car Foundation which is a 501(c)(3) organization with the mission of preserving the Packard Proving Grounds. The Shelby Farmers Market welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes.
Organizers offered some tips for success at the market.
• Arrive early for the best selection.
• Bring cash, as not all vendors may be able to accept credit cards.
• Bring reusable bags to carry purchases.
For free tours of the historic site at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon, visit the information tent located near the mailbox.
To learn more about the market, visit shelbyfarmersmarket.org.