By Kim Weightman
•
December 2, 2025
The Bethel Park Farmers Market, heading into its 20 th year in 2026, has been named the region’s top farmers market in the “Observer‑Reporter’s Best of the Best Awards,” earning the #1 spot after two rounds of community voting and a gala announcement at the Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe in Canonsburg last month. The award program, organized annually by the Observer-Reporter, celebrates the businesses, organizations, and people the local community believes deserve recognition. The top three vote‑getters in each category are honored at an invite‑only gala, where winners are announced live. “This recognition reflects years of dedication from our staff and volunteers,” said Recreation Director Jason Mentel. “The staff has dedicated considerable effort toward earning this award over the past several years. Sarah’s contribution was instrumental in elevating Bethel Park Farmers Market to achieve this recognition.” Farmers Market Coordinator Sarah Komatsu attended the gala and said, “I was fully shocked and thrilled. It’s been such an honor to steward the Market as it enters its 20th year. I’m grateful to the community who has shown up for two decades, to our incredible vendors, and to all the Market managers before me.” The Bethel Park Farmers Market, sponsored by the Bethel Park Community Foundation and St. Clair Health, continues to grow in accessibility and community impact. This past season featured: Fifty-two vendors , including nearly 20 rotating vendors for variety and six new vendors. Weekly attendance averaging 1,000–1,500 visitors , with peak weeks exceeding 2,000. Record sales reported by multiple vendors throughout the summer. Expanded accessibility through the Food Assistance Match (FAM) program, which doubled SNAP benefits up to $100 weekly, and senior vouchers that increased purchasing power for fresh produce and farm goods. On‑site doctors from St. Clair Health offering blood pressure checks and health conversations, elevating the Bethel Park Farmers’ Market experience. Highlights from the 2025 season included a new food court area, themed events such as National Bee Day and Cow Appreciation Day, musical entertainment, a special cooling tent complete with fun activities such as hula hoops and bubble machines, Market scavenger hunts for children, and partnerships with local organizations for a school supply drive. Assistance for those needing support in transporting their Market goods to their vehicles was also available. Looking ahead, Komatsu plans to expand vendor variety - including food items for those with specialized diets (such as gluten free) and continue building a welcoming, family‑friendly atmosphere. The 2026 season will open Tuesday, May 5, 2026 , and run weekly through September, from 3–7 p.m. at the same location (South Park VIP parking lot off of Corrigan Dr. near the ice-skating rink). Any new vendors interested in participating during the 2026 season can add their name to the waitlist by visiting https://www.bethelparkpa.gov – “Recreation” – “Farmers Market.” 2025 vendor fees were $400 for a full season, $250 for half season, and $150 for once‑a‑month vendors; food truck fees were $500 for a full season and $250 for half season. Komatsu also credited her summer assistant, local Bethel Park High School student Bane Stalder, for his support with the Market and also in managing FAM and troubleshooting. “I couldn’t do it without him,” she said. “He’s already looking forward to returning next season.” For more information, vendor applications, or volunteer opportunities, contact the Bethel Park Farmers Market at farmersmarket@bethelparkpa.gov .
