|
|
EASTON, Pa. – To show appreciation for the tireless and essential work of living pollinators such as bees, butterflies and birds, two of Easton’s markets will celebrate National Pollinator Week (June 19-25) with a host of celebratory and educational events.
Pollinators help carry pollen from the male part of the flower (stamen) to the female part of the same or another flower (stigma), which is critical for many plants to become fertilized and produce fruits, seeds, and young plants. “Without pollinators, we would not have most of the wonderful food options that we see throughout the markets,” said Megan McBride, manager of Easton Market District. “They may be relatively small insects and animals, but they have a mammoth impact on our food supply.”
West Ward Market: Wednesday, June 21, 3 -7 p.m.
Things will be buzzing at the neighborhood market on N. 12th Street.
- Easton Garden Works will hold a free bird box building workshop and Pocono Apiaries will offer a beekeeping talk at 4 p.m.
- The Wildlands Conservancy will offer fun activities for all including make and take seed bombs, Monarch caterpillars, butterfly tagging information, and other hands-on activities.
- In Cottingham Stadium (adjacent to the market), the Easton/Phillipsburg Branch of the Greater Valley YMCA will host their monthly ‘Wacky Wednesday’ with field games and fun for kids.
- The West Ward Market’s mascot, Westie the Woodpecker will make an appearance at 5 p.m., followed by live music with Lancaster duo, The Billies, from 5-7 p.m.
- The Power of Produce (POP) program for kids will be featuring sampling and activities centered around fruits and veggies that depend on pollination.
- Earthen Goat, a local potter will be the featured vendor of the week, offering an array of bee-themed pottery.
Easton Farmers’ Market: Saturday, June 24, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The Market will celebrate Honey Bee Day at its scenic home along the riverfront at Scott Park. In addition to sweet eats, treats and beverages, the Market will offer free bee stickers at the welcome tents as well as new Easton Farmers’ Market bee swag.
Activities include:
- A beekeeping talk with Funny Farm Apiaries (on stage) at 9 a.m.
- Wildlands Conservancy will offer fun activities for all including make and take seed bombs, Monarch caterpillars, butterfly tagging information, and other hands-on activities starting at 9 a.m.
- A Honey Bee Tea Party (on the hillside). Children are invited to the Honey Bee Tea for a buzzing good time with tea, treats, stories and songs. $5/child. 10 a.m.
- Live music on stage featuring the Deal Trio, celebrating the music of the Grateful Dead. 10 a.m. – noon
- Guest Vendors: Earthen Goat (pottery), Heart Beet Studio (pottery), Fraktured Hot Sauces (craft hot sauce).
About Easton Farmers’ Market
Easton Farmers’ Market (EFM) is a program of the Greater Easton Development Partnership (GEDP) and part of Easton’s Market District. EFM is America’s longest continuously-running open-air market. It is a producer-only market that features fresh, local produce – the vast majority of which is naturally or organically grown. Customers will also find antibiotic and hormone-free, pasture-raised meats, fresh baked goods, and ready-to-eat items. More: eastonfarmersmarket.com. GEDP is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit organization focused on Easton’s economic well-being, historical integrity, vibrant culture, and hospitality. More: eastonpartnership.org.
About West Ward Market
The West Ward Market serves Easton’s West Ward and surrounding neighborhoods with access to fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods and more, with many items reflecting the rich international food cultures of West Ward residents. Launched in 2022 and located on N. 12th Street in Easton, between Paxinosa Elementary School and Cottingham Stadium, the market also provides a venue for connecting with neighbors and community organizations. More: westwardmarket.com
Information provided to TVL by:
Michael Drabenstott (for GEDP)
Drabenstott Communications Group
