For the first time in more than a decade, the streets of Everett came alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of a community farmers market. On Saturday, July 11, residents gathered on School Street off Broadway to celebrate the long-awaited return of the Everett Farmers Market, an event that had been absent from the city for over ten years.

The market, which runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., drew crowds eager to browse a diverse selection of local offerings. Vendors showcased farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, botanical plants, prepared foods, and other locally made products. For many attendees, it was more than just a shopping trip—it was a reunion with a cherished community tradition.

"Bringing the Farmers Market back to Everett is something residents have been asking for, and I am proud we have made it happen," said Mayor Robert J. Van Campen. "It is an opportunity to support local businesses, strengthen our community, and create a welcoming place where neighbors can come together throughout the summer."

The revival of the farmers market responds to years of requests from Everett residents and aligns with priorities identified by the Everett Food Policy Council. The council has long advocated for improved access to nutritious food and a stronger local food system, and the market represents a tangible step toward those goals. In 2023, the Healey-Driscoll Administration awarded grants to support local food systems, including efforts by the Everett Food Policy Council to update and implement its Community Food Plan.

The market is not a one-time event. Organizers have scheduled additional dates throughout the summer: July 25, August 8, August 22, and September 12. Additional vendors are expected to join in the coming weeks, expanding the selection of fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and prepared foods available to shoppers.

One of the market's key features is its commitment to accessibility. Shoppers can use WIC benefits, Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) benefits, and Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupons to purchase eligible items. HIP is a Massachusetts program that applies state funds to purchases when SNAP recipients use their EBT cards to buy fruits and vegetables at participating farms and markets, making fresh, healthy food more affordable for low-income residents.

City officials hope the market will become a lasting community gathering place that supports local businesses while promoting healthy living across Everett. For a city that has been without a farmers market for over ten years, the return of this tradition marks a meaningful milestone in building a more connected, healthier community.