The West Palm Beach GreenMarket has become a juggernaut, but in a friendly, healthy eating, smoothie drinking, meet people, bring-your-dog kind of way. Not only is it guaranteed to draw a crowds to the city’s waterfront bright and early on a weekend morning, it has earned widespread recognition, winning the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice award for best farmers market in the nation for three years in a row.
What could be better than that? How about four in a row?
That’s right. Not resting on its laurels, the West Palm Beach GreenMarket, which attracts thousands to downtown every Saturday from October through April, is again in the running along with 19 others to be named one of the 10 best markets in the country. Hopes are that loyal lovers of cider donuts, fresh produce, gourmet coffee and more will vote the GreenMarket to the very top spot. (The competition includes markets from Maine to California and several states in between.)
This year’s GreenMarket slogan: “Help us grow to four in a row.”
“We’re honored to once again be nominated as one of the best farmers markets in the U.S.,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “Each season, the market gets bigger and better, with this year bringing the most vendors to date, additional entertainment and more activities for marketgoers to enjoy. There is a reason our market has won this competition for three consecutive years.”
And, yes, you can can help by voting for them here once per day until 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 15.
The West Palm Beach GreenMarket will wrap up it’s 29th season on April 30. This year, Saturdays feature 125 vendors, the most ever, with 30 that were new for the season.
This success of the GreenMarket is a testament to years of the city’s support and residents’ passion.
Started in 1995 by then West Palm Beach Mayor Nancy Graham, who envisioned a weekly market for the downtown after visiting some of the public markets throughout Europe, the first season featured only 13 vendors.
“Our West Palm Beach GreenMarket has come a long way since its inception
In 1995,” said Mary Pinak, community events manager for the city, who has been involved in the market since its start. “What started as a small market with a few vendors has grown into a community Saturday staple. Our market is about more than a place for fresh produce and unique offerings. It brings the community together for a Saturday morning outing, supports small businesses and is the place to be on a Saturday during season. We are honored to again be nominated, especially as we approach our 30th season.”