Wilmington Riverfront Farmers Market sees huge turnout on the first day of the 2021 season

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Farmers Market Opened its gates to a near record-breaking crowd for its first day of the new season on Saturday.

Keeping with COVID-19 precautions, everyone was required to wear a mask. That’s one of the things vendor Rob Majkowski says he is looking forward to changing most when the pandemic is over.

“I miss seeing the smiles,” Majkowski said. “But everyone seems to be very upbeat and happy to be out.”

Majkowski has been going to markets for 13 years. But Little Loaf Bakery & School House owner Julia Castellano decided to give the market a try for the first time ever.

“I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity,” Castellano said. “This is what I love to do. It’s seriously my passion. I don’t wanna do anything else. I’m in love with this experience. I’m in love with what I do. I can not wait to put my stuff out there to Wilmington and see how it goes.”

Fellow newcomer Maggie Blackham agrees with Castellano. Blackham says she hopes opening day is a sign of things to come for her Cheeky Monkey coffee business.

“Everyone’s excited to get out,” Blackham said. “There’s so many vendors here, so there’s lots to shop for. Everyone’s excited. We’re going to have a good spring and summer season here.”

The Farmers Market is pet friendly, with many people brining their dogs to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.

For Venture Dog Co. owner Ashlie Sutton, that’s her target demographic.

“I really take care of the dogs, and I give them lots of free things like treats and all of that to incentivize them to purchase, first of all,” Sutton said. “But second of all, because it just gives them something to do with their dogs while they’re here as well.”

Most people agreed that the market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning. Market manager James Christopher says he was overwhelmed with the turnout.

“Vendors here have been doing really well,” Christopher said. “I’ve been talking to them. They’re very happy, and everyone of them say they just can’t thank Wilmington enough. Because Wilmington supports local, and they’ve proven it once again.”

The Farmer’s Market will continue to be open rain or shine every Saturday through November 20th.