New Farmers Market Set to Launch in Ligonier Township This June |
Community-backed event will bring local vendors to former country market site |
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LIGONIER TOWNSHIP — A new chapter for local agriculture and small businesses will begin June 13, as the Ligonier Valley Farmers Market prepares to open on property owned by the Loyalhanna Watershed Association. Township supervisors approved a special event permit during a recent meeting, a decision that drew applause from attendees. Supervisor Stephanie Verna commended organizers, calling the effort a strong example of cooperation and persistence within the community. The market will take place on a 9-acre parcel that previously hosted the long-running Ligonier Country Market. Earlier this year, disagreements between the watershed association and country market organizers over leasing terms led to the longtime market seeking a new home. Operating twice monthly on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Ligonier Valley Farmers Market will run from June through September. Planned dates include June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25, Aug. 8 and 29, and Sept. 12 and 26. Organizers expect around 60 local vendors offering products such as fresh produce, dairy items, baked goods, and honey. Attendance is projected at about 1,000 visitors per event—significantly smaller than the former country market, which typically attracted 3,000 to 5,000 shoppers and featured more than 100 vendors. Local business owner Dawn Szalay of Song of Sixpence voiced support for the market, presenting a petition signed by 50 residents and merchants. She emphasized the broader impact of market days, noting they help generate foot traffic, strengthen connections, and support the local economy. Angel Tunstall, owner of Ligonier Paws on Main and part of the organizing group, said the goal is to create a welcoming and sustainable event that benefits farmers, small businesses, and families throughout the valley. Meanwhile, the future of the Ligonier Country Market is also taking shape. The Westmoreland County Airport Authority has agreed to draft a lease that would allow the market to relocate to a parking area at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Unity. The proposal is currently under review. |