By Kate Bartlett
The Ellicottville Farmers Market is proudly entering its eighth season, continuing its mission to connect local farmers, artists, and small business owners with the Ellicottville community. The market takes place Fridays from 4-7pm on the lawn of the historic 1887 Building at 1 Washington Street. The 2025 season will begin on July 11 and run through August 29, the Friday before Labor Day weekend.
Founded in 2018 by Caitlin Croft and a small group of passionate community members, the market began as a modest gathering—just four weekends and a handful of local vendors. Over the years, it continued forward with Croft at the helm, growing into a staple summer tradition in the village.
“It’s been incredible to watch this market grow,” said Croft. “What started as a small idea has become something the community truly looks forward to each summer. The market provides local flavor during a season of growth.”
community members, the market began as a modest gathering—just four
weekends and a handful of local vendors. Over the years, it continued forward
with Croft at the helm, growing into a staple summer tradition in the village.
Last year marked the market’s most successful season to date, welcoming more than 15 unique vendors and drawing consistent crowds each week. While fresh produce remains the heart of the market, its offerings have expanded well beyond fruits and vegetables. Visitors can find local honey, banana and zucchini bread, maple syrup, baked goods, plants, herbs, floral arrangements, pottery, wood-burned art, handcrafted cards, jewelry, crystals, and wellness goods. New this season, the market is hoping to feature face painting, henna, and children’s activities.
“The beauty of the market is that it’s always changing,” Croft noted. “Some vendors return week after week, others pop in for just one or two dates. That variety keeps things fresh and exciting. We aim to offer an inviting space for new and seasoned vendors.”
The Ellicottville Farmers Market is intentionally beginner-friendly, offering low barriers to entry for new vendors, creatives, and growers. “We don’t charge formal vendor fees,” explained Croft. “We simply suggest a $10 donation per week. It’s a low-risk way for people to introduce their products to our community and see what resonates.” There are no minimum week commitments, and vendors can sign up for one week or for the full season. Interested participants are encouraged to inquire at ellicottvillefarmersmarket@gmail.com.
At its core, the market is about more than commerce—it’s about connection. “My favorite part is watching people gather,” Croft said. “Families visiting after work, kids running around the village, people meeting local producers. That’s the soul of the market—bringing people together around fresh goods and local talent.”
The Ellicottville Farmers Market will be held every Friday from July 11 through August 29, from 4-7pm, on the lawn of the 1887 Building at 1 Washington Street. The market will take place rain or shine.
For vendor information or general inquiries, contact ellicottvillefarmersmarket@gmail.com. Updates and vendor spotlights can be found on the market’s Instagram page @ellicottvillefarmersmarket.