It's that time of year again: the Main Street Market is roaring back to DownTown Park Forest, offering area residents fresh food options.
The market is celebrating its 51st anniversary this year, and Assistant Director of Recreation, Parks & Community Health Margaret Lewis said they're mixing it up this time around.
"We have a few new offerings this year, including a live band that'll perform once a month," Lewis said. "Additionally, Chef Susan Maddox will do a food demo, and a mini fitness step class will be held. We'll be sure to let everyone know when these events will happen."
Lewis noted that the Main Street Market is a way for the Village to address food insecurities, as Park Forest is classified as a food desert. She said that's why the partnership between the Village and Tulip Tree Gardens, which is based in nearby Beecher, is vital.
"We're able to increase residents' access to fresh produce because of our relationship with Tulip Tree Gardens," said Lewis. "They'll have vegetables available starting June 1."
Lewis said that in May, vendors sell plants for the garden, and craft vendors sell garden items. Produce arrives in mid-July, depending on the weather.
Another new thing residents will notice is the hours of the Main Street Market. Lewis said the community requested that the market run from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. instead of the previous 7 a.m. until noon hours of operation.
Some of the community's favorite vendors are returning this year, along with some new ones. Lewis said people would have options to buy whatever they like, from chili from a food truck to skin care products.
"Ace's Aromatics, Green Step Goods, and Flamin' Hotties will be on hand this year," Lewis said. "We have plenty of other vendors who'll participate, so residents should follow the Park Forest Main Street Market Facebook page to stay updated on what's happening."
Lewis expressed the Main Street Market offers a program that allows people to get the best bang for their buck. She said the SNAP/Double Bucks program is an excellent option for shoppers. If you receive SNAP benefits, you can use them at the Main Street Market, and the Double Buck program can double your purchase up to $25. For example, if you spend $25 on your SNAP card, you'll receive an extra $25 free to use towards fruits and vegetables.
Lewis said the USDA Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program is a significant part of the market. Senior coupons are usually available at Village Hall in July.
For more information about Main Street Market, read the newsletter every Friday at 7 a.m. People can sign up for it at the Market, which is open on Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 6 through Oct. 26.