The Danbury Farmers Market returns this summer with fresh, local produce, a vibrant community spirit, and a host of new initiatives aimed at making the market more accessible, engaging, and inclusive for all. Held weekly on the CityCenter Green, the market continues to be a cornerstone of downtown life—supporting healthy food access, small businesses, and family-friendly programming.

This season, one of the standout additions is the Kids Zone, created in partnership with Grassroots Academy. Each week, local high school students will lead games and crafts for children while their families shop. “It’s a great way to keep kids engaged while parents shop,” said Peggy Zamore, CD-N, MPH, Director of the Danbury Farmers’ Market and a certified nutritionist with the Danbury Farmers’ Market Community Collaborative. “We hope it helps create a welcoming space for families and fosters a sense of community involvement among youth.”

Another major initiative launching this season is a collaboration with Community Food Rescue (CFR), a program of the Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut. CFR rescues surplus food from retailers and redistributes it to local organizations serving families and seniors facing food insecurity. The partnership with the market will expand outreach, education, and resources for low-income and elderly residents.

“CFR visits every low-income senior housing complex in Danbury—11 in total—each month,” said Linda Hutchings, the director of Community Food Rescue. “We bring a mobile truck so seniors can shop for produce right where they live. We’re interacting with them several times a week, and now we’ll also be able to provide farmers market vouchers, explain the dollar-doubling program, and help them get free bus passes. This partnership increases visibility and funding for both programs. We’re thrilled to have Peggy’s expertise on board.”

Returning market vendors will offer a wide range of products, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, farm-fresh eggs, local honey, jams, maple syrup, baked goods, and more. Local artisans will also be on hand with handmade crafts and gifts. New vendors are still welcome to apply—there is no firm deadline, and applications are available at www.danburyfarmersmarket.org.

The market will continue its SNAP/EBT dollar-doubling program, which allows SNAP recipients to receive twice the value for every dollar spent—making healthy food more affordable for families. Other food assistance programs are also accepted, including Senior and WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupons. With CFR’s support, seniors will receive help navigating these programs to make the most of their benefits.

Community members are invited to volunteer at the market to support logistics, programming, and outreach. “We’re always happy to have extra hands,” said Zamore. “Volunteers play a key role in making sure everything runs smoothly and that we reach the people who need us most.”

The Danbury Farmers Market is a rain-or-shine event. In the case of inclement weather, it will be relocated indoors to the fourth floor of the Patriot Parking Garage, conveniently located next to the Green—ensuring consistent access for shoppers and vendors every week.

“We are excited to welcome back our community and visitors to the Danbury Farmers Market,” said Lazaro Chavez, executive director of CityCenter Danbury. “This market not only supports local farmers and businesses but also provides a space for the community to come together and enjoy the best of what our region has to offer. There’s something for everyone at the farmers market.”

Visit the Danbury Farmers Market
CityCenter Green, Danbury
Starting June 21 – Weekly, Rain or Shine
Indoor Location (if needed): 4th Floor, Patriot Parking Garage

For volunteer opportunities, vendor applications, or information about food assistance programs, visit the website www.danburyfarmersmarket.org or stop by the market information booth.