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Chesapeake outlines city-run farmers’ markets, vendor application deadline April 1
Summary
City staff describe four city-run farmers’ markets in Chesapeake, with schedules for City Park and a new South Norfolk site, an April 1 vendor application deadline, payment options (cash, SNAP/WIC, cards) and a forthcoming local agriculture guide.
Chesapeake staff say four city-run farmers’ markets will open this season, with established and new locations and a vendor application window that closes April 1.
"So in Chesapeake there are 4 farmers’ markets that are managed by the City," Nathan Sedghi, who manages some of the city markets, said on the Peake Life program. He said the long-running Chesapeake City Park market will operate Wednesdays and Saturdays beginning the first Saturday in June, from 8 a.m. to noon, under the park pavilion.
The city also manages a Friday market behind the Health Department, run by Kimmy Stevens, and plans a new Sunday market at Great Bridge Waterways, Sedghi said. He added a new South Norfolk market will open in an empty lot at 1115 Poindexter Street, near ForKids and the library, with the first day set for the third Saturday in June.
Why it matters: The markets provide seasonal produce and an economic outlet for local vendors, city staff said. "It's one of the few places where you can really go and know that you're supporting small businesses in the area," Sedghi said, noting vendors sell everything from spring greens and summer tomatoes to farm-fresh eggs, meats, canned goods, breads and cut flowers.
How to apply: Sedghi said the city uses an online application for each market and that prospective vendors can call the city's office at 757-382-6348 to request an application. "My next application deadline closes April 1," he said, adding that he will begin reviewing applications after that date.
Practical details: Payment methods vary by vendor; "some vendors only accept cash. Some do accept SNAP or WIC, and some accept cards," Sedghi warned, advising visitors to check vendor listings or ask vendors directly. Sedghi said he links posts to vendors' pages so customers can follow vendors and see offerings year-round.
City information and guide: The city is preparing a local agriculture guide that will list farmers’ markets and licensed farm stands, Sedghi said, and the guide will include u-pick operations after the city verifies official licensing and obtains permission from those operators.
The episode closed with Meyers thanking Sedghi for the overview and encouraging listeners to check listings and contact the city's market office for vendor applications and questions.
