Annapolis Farmers' Market Open For Business

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- There are hopes of a successful season for the Annapolis farmers' market.

Sunday marked the beginning of its 33rd year and, as Tim Williams shows us, neither vendors nor shoppers are waiting until spring for fresh produce.

With a mild start to the year, tables of vendors at the Annapolis Winter Farmers' Market are setting up shop.  The crowds are gearing up as its 33rd year is beginning on a successful note.

"We love being able to buy local ingredients and support local farmers and their good work," said Chris Mason.

This winter market is at the Westfield Annapolis Mall near the first level of Nordstrom under protection of the parking garage.  Farmers are selling meat and eggs, produce and greens, among other seasonal wares.  It's bridging the gap for local farmers and merchants until the spring selling season.

"This way, the people we've established a good business with during the summer can come here and get what they need from the farmers," said Brenda Conti.

By most accounts, the nearly 12 vendors see enough market business during this under-garage winter market to justify spending every first and third Sunday through April here.

"If it wasn't worth our while, those farmers would not come from the Eastern Shore all the way over here," Conti said.

Many of the businesses are family-owned from around the Eastern Shore.

"Our family has farmed in Queen Anne's County since the Revolutionary War.  I've been on the farm I'm on since I was 11 months old," said Lew Dodd.

And while outdoor winter shopping does come with its challenges, customers find the benefit.

The market will be open from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. every first and third Sunday through April 17.

For more information on the winter market, click here.