BLOOMINGTON — The Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market (BCFM) is gearing up for a bustling Memorial Day weekend celebration this Saturday. Beyond offering fresh, locally sourced food, the market serves as a vital gathering space highlighting generational family farms, local artistry, civic engagement, and community education.
For decades, family farms have served as the backbone of the BCFM. These farms are more than livelihoods; they are places where practical skills, shared responsibilities, faith, and community values are passed down through generations.
Just in time for the holiday weekend, Graber’s Produce (Booth #C10) will feature an ample supply of both sweet and tart cherries.
Whether you are looking for a fresh snack or ingredients for holiday baking, it helps to know the difference between the two varieties:
- Sweet Cherries: Known for their juicy, sugary flavor, these are typically enjoyed fresh and eaten raw.
- Tart Cherries: Featuring a brighter, tangier taste, these are commonly cooked or processed and are perfect for pies, preserves, and baking.
In addition to cherries, visitors can explore a wide variety of produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods from numerous long-standing family vendors.
Live Music: Returning Favorite Anna Wrasse Takes the Stage
Market-goers can kick off their holiday weekend with live music from returning BCFM favorite Anna Wrasse. The versatile singer-songwriter, who also plays violin in the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra, will perform two sets on the Circular Stage at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
Wrasse recently released her newest EP, “From 17 to 23,” which features three original tracks: “Sherlock Holmes,” “At 17,” and “Make Up Your Mind.” The official music video for “Sherlock Holmes” is currently available on her YouTube channel. Passionate about connecting with audiences through film, theater, and music, Wrasse continues to expand her footprint in performance and writing.
Community Outreach & Education: Meet the Mayor’s Team and Roving Naturalists
The market continues its commitment to civic connection and education with two unique Saturday programs:
Mayor’s Team @ the Table (10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.): This community outreach initiative invites the public to engage directly with local government leaders. This Saturday, Desiree DeMolina, Communications Director for the Office of the Mayor, will be at the table to greet residents and answer questions.
Roving Naturalists: Stationed at the market on the first and third Saturdays of each month, local naturalists offer educational activities and information for all ages. Stop by to ask ecological questions or observe a critter. Roving Naturalists are also available for private natural resource programs. For details, contact Heidi Shoemaker at 812-349-3759.
Severe Weather and Safety Protocol
Market staff emphasize that safety remains the absolute top priority. In the event of severe weather—including lightning, high winds, hail, or tornado warnings—the following safety protocols will be enforced:
Shelter Procedures: Participants are encouraged to seek shelter immediately on the lower level of City Hall or inside an enclosed vehicle.
Sirens: Monroe County emergency sirens indicate a tornado warning or a sighted funnel cloud/tornado. Market staff will monitor the situation and provide updates when it is safe to return.
Schedule Impacts: Sustained severe weather may result in a market suspension, delay, or abbreviated hours.
For real-time updates regarding the status of Parks and Recreation community events, residents can contact the Community Hotline at 812-349-3745.
