The Farmers Market Support Program hosted our annual Farmers Market Gathering on February 13. The Fayette County Extension Office was vibrant with energy as more than 70 farmers market leaders from across the state gathered for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
The day featured insightful presentations from UK Cooperative Extension Service agents, who shared updates, resources, and strategies to support thriving markets. Chelsey Brock from Feeding Kentucky shared opportunities for collaboration to increase food access across communities. Margie Stelzer, CFA’s Kentucky Double Dollars Administrator, presented on the impact and expansion of the Kentucky Double Dollars program, emphasizing how incentive programs boost both farmer revenue and healthy food access statewide.
After the morning sessions, participants enjoyed a delicious meal provided by Alfalfa’s, which offered a fresh, locally inspired spread.
Attendees then moved into breakout sessions tailored to practical, real-world market needs. A sharing circle on community partnerships encouraged open dialogue about building strong local relationships with health departments, tourism, nonprofits, state parks, local businesses, and more. Growers and managers explored tools and techniques for extending the market season during an engaging workshop led by Grow Appalachia, focusing on season extension strategies that help farmers markets increase profitability and consistency.
Meanwhile, Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) guided participants through the business side of farmers markets: covering governance, financial sustainability, vendor management, and long-term planning.
Beyond the formal sessions, the gathering fostered meaningful peer-to-peer exchange. Market leaders shared successes, challenges, and creative solutions, leaving with renewed energy and actionable ideas to implement in their own communities. One participant shared that “we always enjoy the gathering, but this was the best one yet!”
Thank you to every participant and partner for making the gathering a huge success! We can’t wait to see y’all next year!