The weekly Farmers Market at Parker Press Park on Rahway Avenue in Woodbridge offers much more than just fruits and vegetables.
Bread lovers were flocking to the tent that houses a host of artisan breads baked by Breadsmith of Cranford. Selections included specialty peach- and apple-pie breads, pumpkin bread, zucchini bread, cinnamon flavored “monkey” bread, stuffed dessert breads and a lot more, according to Donna Thomas of Old Bridge, who was working at the Breadsmith tent.
“It’s been very successful. We will be back,” Breadsmith owner Kathy Vastola said of their first year at the market. “I am thankful to the community.”
Although a variety of fresh tomatoes, corn, beans, eggplants and other produce presented by Norz Hill Farm of Hillsborough are a huge draw, there’s a lot more going on at the little neighborhood park.
Part of the township’s Woodbridge Wednesdays summer series, the Farmers Market is one aspect of the weekly event that also features free concerts and car shows.
Kelly Reidy, the township’s special events and project coordinator, said that although the last concert will be held on Aug. 26, the Farmers Market will continue through Sept. 25.
“It’s so much more than just fruit,” Reidy said.
Nikki Reiser of Comfort & Balance will offer a free yoga class on Sept. 18, and patrons are asked to bring a mat or a towel. Neil’s Sharpening Service will also be available that day. Christine McCarthy of Clark offers homemade, chemical-free bath and body products.
Life Benson III of New Brunswick cooks up freshly barbecued chicken and pork at Benson’s Barbecue stand every week. Local restaurant J.J. Bittings Brewing Co. sells beer and wine during the concerts, and Rita’s Ices offers ices to break the heat.
Visitors can also get an education in honeybees, beekeeping and making honey, plus a taste of the many differently flavored honeys and honey-based products from Ed Vaeth of the Neshanic Valley Beekeepers.
Jaker’s Pickles has been a staple of the Farmers Market since it began in 2007, according to Stephen Jaker of Woodbridge. People were enjoying his Kosher pickles in addition to samples of an array of sauerkrauts, pickled mangoes, Italian stuffed olives and more.
Representatives of the Woodbridge Animal Shelter were on-site with some rescued dogs, adoption information and to collect donations for the shelter.
The event also featured tables with information about Woodbridge Community Center and Woodbridge Township. Children’s face painting and tattoos were available from the YMCA.
“I think it gives people the opportunity to get together and socialize and learn a little bit about our community,” said Jennifer Morgan, a volunteer at the event.