Batavia, IL: Batavia MainStreet invites area growers and producers to apply for a seasonal space at the 2007 Batavia Farmers’ Market. The market kicks off July 7th and runs Saturdays from 8 am – Noon until October 20th on S. Water Street between Wilson Street and First Street in downtown Batavia. The Batavia Farmers’ Market is proudly presented by Batavia MainStreet and sponsored by Harris Bank, LaSalle Bank, Provena Mercy Medical Center, and Quarry Stone Pond Condominiums.

The 2007 Market welcomes back popular returning vendors: Paw Paw Farms (Michigan Fruits), M & D Farms (flowers and produce), Stojan’s Vegetables, Farm Direct Black Angus, Erehwon Farms (perennial plants, flowers and herbs), and Great Harvest Bread Company. A new addition to the Market this year is Sycamore Winery. A limited number of spaces are available and Market applications may be requested by calling (630) 761-3528 and leaving mailing information or by visiting the Batavia MainStreet website at www.downtownbatavia.com. The cost of an annual space is $195 for one space and $275 for a double space. Weekly space is available at a cost of $20 for a single space or $30 for a double space if space is available.

New this year at the market is the “south market,” which opens up a 10’ x 10’ space or larger to businesses, community groups, home based businesses and anyone who wants to sell items. The traditional Farmers’ Market will remain in the same location on the north end of the Market. The cost for a south market space is $20 weekly for a 10’ x 10’ space. Pre-registration for the Market by the Wednesday prior to each weekly Market is highly suggested due to limited space. Email farmersmarket@downtownbatavia.com or call (630) 761-3528 to receive an application or download a form at www.downtownbatavia.com.

Market shoppers should get ready to enjoy another new addition this year - monthly “Gourmet Days” on the first Saturday of each month (July 7, August 4, September 1 and October 6th). Chef Jason Stoffels of Enticing Cuisine prepares dishes using Farmers’ Market ingredients for sampling to the public. Other gourmet-related vendors are encouraged to rent a booth space on these days to be clustered in mid market between the farmers and the south market.

Volunteers are needed to make the market a continued success. Two shifts are available, serving monthly: set up crew begins at 6:45 am and works until 9:30 and the take down crew begins at 9:30 am and works until 12:30 p.m. Interested persons should email farmersmarket@downtownbatavia.com or call the MainStreet office at 761-3528 and leave a message that will be returned.

The Batavia MainStreet Program is one of 64 not-for-profit, community based organizations in the state of Illinois. The mission of Batavia MainStreet is to enhance the identity of Batavia’s downtown area as the heart of our community. MainStreet members work through the four points: Design, Economic Restructuring, Organization and Promotion to improve the downtown district. MainStreet volunteers believe the revitalization of Downtown Batavia is essential to our community’s sense of pride, place, and heritage for this and future generations. For more information Batavia MainStreet or to volunteer on any of their four committees: Design, Economic Restructuring, Organization or Promotion, please contact the office at (630) 761-3528 or email britta@downtownbatavia.com.