Delran Farmers Market Has Residents Excited

Thanks to an enterprising new councilwoman and dedicated volunteers, starting next month, Delran will have its very own farmers market.

The market was the brainchild of freshman Councilwoman Lona Pangia, who stumbled upon the idea while doing research into Sustainable Jersey.

"There are things I know as a parent, I'd like to see," explained Pangia. "So this is just another new idea."

The endeavor has been helped along by a dedicated group of volunteers, she said, who are in the process of signing up vendors for the market's June 18 grand opening.

Pangia said the township is looking to open with about 10 to 12 vendors—"We don't want to grow too fast"—and is approaching its limit for produce vendors, which are expected to make up about a quarter of the total number of vendors. The township is also seeking craft and baked goods vendors, among others. 

The tentative deadline for vendors to register for the market is May 15, but Pangia said it could be extended if more time is needed. The township will hold an informational meeting for vendors from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 14.

"We were so excited to put this program together for Delran," said Council President Gary Catrambone. "Having fresh produce available directly from local farmers, I think our residents are going to love having this farmers market right here in Delran every week."

The farmers market will be held in the parking lot of the Delran municipal building (900 S. Chester Ave.) from 4 p.m. to dusk every Tuesday, from June 18 through the end of August.

"That gives people plenty of time to come home from work and go out and buy fresh vegetables before dinner," said Pangia. 

If social media is any gauge, the farmers market should be hugely popular. According to Pangia, more than 11,000 people have viewed the post about the farmers market that ran on the township's Facebook page a few weeks ago.

"Everybody's excited to have something new," she said.

Vendors interested in participating can pick up an application at the municipal building or download an application on Pangia's own website and email it to info@delrantownship.org.

Anyone seeking more information can also contact Pangia at 856-255-5685 or Councilman Mike Schwartz at 856-425-8044.

Click here to learn about some of the other farmers markets in our area.