As Wednesday rolls around, the Norfolk town common fills with shoppers carrying produce bags, children weaving between tents, and neighbors chatting as local vendors set up for the Norfolk Farmers Market.

Now celebrating its tenth season, the market has become a familiar part of summer in town. Since opening in 2016, it has grown from a small collection of two local farms in the parking lot of the Grange Hall to a weekly event, now hosting a variety of food trucks, local vendors, live music, and more. The market moved to the town common in 2017 and began operating on Wednesdays in 2021.

For market organizer and local farm owner Zach Ziegler, one of the biggest differences between a farmers market and a grocery store is the opportunity to connect directly with the people behind the products.

"Being able to talk with the folks who grow, make, and bake your food is definitely a unique experience you will not get at a store," Ziegler said. He also added that the market is an opportunity for people to discover seasonal produce and products they may not otherwise find in a traditional grocery store.

Beyond shopping, Ziegler sees the market as a place that brings the community together. "The market is a great place to meet people in your community," he said. "We have developed a lot of great relationships with customers, vendors, musicians, and community members throughout the years."

Because the Norfolk Farmers Market is smaller than many others in the area, Ziegler believes it has maintained a welcoming, hometown atmosphere where regular visitors and vendors get to know each other. The market also provides an opportunity for new local businesses to introduce their products and begin building a customer base.

Over the past decade, the market has expanded well beyond its original group of vendors. Today, visitors can find everything from fresh produce to honey, baked goods, prepared foods, crafters, and live entertainment.

Looking ahead, Ziegler hopes customers will leave with more than just groceries. "I hope people find a new favorite fruit or vegetable in season at the market and come home with a new recipe idea each week," he said.

As the market continues its tenth season, it remains an opportunity not only to shop locally but connect with neighbors and celebrate the small businesses that help make up the Norfolk community. Visit the market on Wednesdays from 3 to 7 p.m. through September 30 and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.