Behind the scenes at the Maple Valley Farmers Market

While the Maple Valley Farmers Market strives to fulfill its mission to “enhance the livability of all of our community members” through its weekly array of up to 65 farmers, prepared food vendors, artisans, nonprofits, and young entrepreneurs, one often-overlooked aspect is the entertainment.

By Polly Shepherd • June 7, 2014 4:55 pm

While the Maple Valley Farmers Market strives to fulfill its mission to “enhance the livability of all of our community members” through its weekly array of up to 65 farmers, prepared food vendors, artisans, nonprofits, and young entrepreneurs, one often-overlooked aspect is the entertainment.

Each Saturday centers on a specific event, from Opening Day to Kid’s Day, Canning Demonstrations, Chili Cook Off, and Watermelon Eating contests.

Local musician and volunteer Jim Hanna has scheduled the weekly entertainment since the Market’s inception, and he fills the stage each Saturday with bands, solo performers, and duos.  Dace Anderson, Founder and President of Dace’s Rock ‘n’ More, has been the entertainment sponsor for the past five years.

Buskers were a new addition for the 2013 season. The Market’s first busker, youth entertainer Peter Seely, a Tahoma Junior High freshman and a four-year trumpet player, made his premier performance as a busker in July. Those interested in busking should visit http://www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org/Vendor-Info.html.

Special events and entertainment will add a note of festivity to the sixty-six vendors already committed to the upcoming Market season, which begins Saturday, June 21, at 9:00 a.m..  More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.