A summer tradition in downtown Syracuse for more than four decades is back for another year starting Tuesday. The 44th annual Downtown Farmers Market will open today in Clinton Square and run every Tuesday through mid-October. Brad Vivacqua has more about this year's market.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Downtown Committee always likes to try new things but at the same time -- they like to bring back what worked from the year before. We all love the fresh fruit and vegetables that the vendors offer in Clinton Square year after year.
Every Tuesday from now through October 11 you can find fresh local produce offered by about 40 to 50 regional vendors. You can find everything from berries and tomatoes through the summer to corn and pumpkins in the fall.
This year, the Food Bank of Central New York will have a booth to help customers learn how to prepare meals with the produce they buy.
With the development of new apartments and condos downtown, more people are expected to visit the market than in year's past.
"We have a 99 percent occupancy rate downtown. And, it's very exciting to see these folks. They call every day; they want to know when the market starts. They wanted me to start 2-3 weeks ago. We have to give the farmers some time to grow some product. So, these folks are excited to be here. We're excited to invite them downtown, invite them to the market," said Downtown Farmers Market Director Chuck McFadden.
The market will again offer live entertainment on a number of weeks throughout the summer.
As part of opening day, Tom Gilbo and the Southern Comfort Band will perform at 12 p.m. It's always a great option to come down to Clinton Square during lunchtime.