ORANGE – The Orange Farmers’ Market begins its 2023 season this week when it will be open Thursday afternoons from May 18 to Oct. 19.

“It’s been a long winter. We’re ready for the market,” said Rachel Gonzalez, now in her ninth year as the market’s manager. “And people are very grateful we’re there. We get a lot of support.”

The location, at the Orange Armory at 135 East Main St., and the hours of 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. remain the same as last year.

The 2023 market is slated to feature vendors offering in-season vegetables, flowers, baked goods, annual and perennial plants, herbal remedies, milk and ice cream, soaps and craft items.

“There’s some excitement around the farmers’ market. People love it. A lot of people’s favorite vendors are back,” said Tony Leger, an Orange Farmers’ Market Committee member. “As every week goes by, it get stronger and stronger.”

The market started hosting live music about five years ago and Leger said that tradition will continue thanks to a $900 Orange Cultural Council grant, which Leger said is about a fourth of the market committee’s budget.

“I’m looking forward to people coming out and supporting the market,” he said.

Gonzalez said she has received several responses since announcing the market’s 2023 season on Facebook’s “Orange MA, Out and About” page.

“There are some vendors that go to other farmers’ markets ... but some people, it’s their only market,” she said, adding that a major draw from customers in the acceptance of SNAP and HIP benefits.

Gonzalez also is a vendor who sells vegetables, smoothies, pesto sauce and a corn-and-bean salsa.

While COVID-19 restrictions have been relaxed, the market will continue to emphasize access and safety. There will be clear markings of entrances and exits and signs, cones, tape and markings will be used as needed to control pedestrian and vehicle flow.

The market needs volunteers to help manage aspects of its operation. Anyone interested should contact Gonzalez at 978-413-0740. Donations can be made by cash or check mailed to the Orange Farmers Market, Inc. at 185 Prentiss St., Orange, MA 01364. They can also be dropped off at the market’s HIP/SNAP booth or at the manager’s tent.

Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-930-4120.

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