The Miami Lakes Farmer’s Market has returned to town after a hiatus that began the first weekend in February.
The town council unanimously awarded a contract on March 12 to Florida Marketplace Group, LLC so it could resume operations.
The market has operated along New Barn Road at Main Street since 2021. It draws visitors who buy fresh fruit and vegetables; baked goods, clothing, jewelry and crafts; offerings from food trucks, artisan honey and other products from about 50 vendors.
The company also presents markets in Miami, Coconut Grove, Miami Shores and other cities.
It has become a part of the Miami Lakes community by staging events such as the July 4th Pie Eating Contest; the Halloween Costume Contest; Paint a Picture for Mom and hosts a summer concert series, too.
Last November it stayed open late to participate in the Annual Main Street Festival of Lights, when thousands of people gather downtown to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
For several weeks before the company’s status changed from a special event permit holder to a vendor with a town contract, fans on social media lamented the disruption and pondered its return.
Councilmembers said constituents let them know they wanted the market to come back.
Exhibitors pay $80 for a booth; food trucks pay $120.
There are a limited number of spaces available for local businesses and restaurants to sell food or goods without paying the fee, the town said.
The Miami Lakes Farmer’s Market is held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.
For more information visit www.thefloridamarketplace group.com.