The Adams County Farmers Market is maintaining a steady vendor base and a full slate of community events this season, even as a damaging spring freeze threatens to disrupt local fruit production, Market Manager Reza Djalal said in a recent interview.
Djalal described the market as stable but evolving, with “a little bit of ebb and flow” among vendors. While some sellers have left, others have joined, keeping overall numbers about the same. The long-term goal, he said, is continued growth—potentially expanding beyond the current footprint.
“My dream is at least still both parking lots,” Djalal said, noting the market currently fills about one and a half. At the same time, he emphasized that growth must be balanced with maintaining the market’s character. “Bigger isn’t always better,” he said, though increased visibility could draw new visitors.
The market’s weekly programming remains a key draw. Returning favorites such as Kids Day, the Fairy Festival, and Young Entrepreneurs Day are complemented by newer initiatives. Among them is a partnership event with the Adams County Food Policy Council titled “Good Food, Strong Community,” aimed at highlighting food insecurity and available resources.
In addition, collaborations with Healthy Adams County will bring a Mental Wellness Day to the market, reflecting a broader effort to address community health issues alongside food access.
Despite the upbeat programming, this year’s growing season presents serious challenges. Djalal said conversations with farmers have underscored the severity of recent cold snaps, which have already wiped out some crops.
“Apricots are gone. Cherries are like 80 percent gone,” he said, adding that some growers are calling it among the worst damage they’ve seen.
To help vendors cope, the market allows limited resale in cases of severe crop failure. Farmers must apply for permission to bring in products from outside sources, a measure Djalal expects will be widely used this year.
“It’s not ideal—it’s not local—but at least it’s revenue,” he said.
The financial strain extends beyond lost harvests. Even when trees fail to produce, farmers must continue investing in maintenance, labor, and preparation for future seasons.
“You’ve still got to take care of the trees for next year,” Djalal said. “You’re doing all the work you normally do, and then you’re not getting anything out of it.”
That reality makes community support more critical than ever, he added, echoing growers who have urged residents to continue buying local products when available.
Looking ahead, the market is also preparing for a major fundraiser, a comedy event at Adams County Winery expected to be its largest yet.
For now, Djalal said he remains satisfied with the market’s direction, even amid uncertainty.
“One step at a time,” he said. “Right now, I’m pretty happy with where we’re at.”
