The Heart of the Parking Lot

Market Notes: Sunshine, Salads, and Something Special

We’ve had two sunny market days in a row, and boy, is it nice. While there’s still a breeze across the parking lot—carrying the smells of pierogis, empanadas, and freshly grilled burgers—the sun shines down on the shopping.

Harry Funk played some tunes while locals and visitors alike strolled down the aisle, perusing produce, scanning the sweets, and soaking in the sunshine. Dogs barked greetings to one another, and kids tugged their grown-ups toward favorite booths and snacks.

We also honored Loneliness Awareness Week with a card-making station at the Bethel Park info booth. More than a dozen kids spent time drawing and writing heartfelt notes to be delivered to people in the community who might need a reminder that they matter.

This past Tuesday, we piloted our first Bite of the Market—offering free samples of a “Market Salad” made from vendor-donated ingredients: cheese, greens, strawberries, and a splash of dressing. I took a turn sharing the samples and pointing shoppers toward the booths where they could recreate the dish—and while I stood there, what really struck me was the conversations.

Some farmers' markets aim for a refined, upscale vibe. Some focus on only the cleanest, greenest ingredients. But ours? Our market is the best of all worlds.

I’ve only been part of this community for a few months, but one thing is clear: we have high values, and family is one of them.

Young families are one of the fastest-growing demographics in Bethel Park, and it shows on Tuesday evenings. You’ll see families meeting up with grandparents, walking the market together, grabbing dinner from a food truck, and sticking around for dessert, music, or a chat. The meal might bring them here, but it’s the atmosphere that keeps them.

And for those who come alone—we want you to feel like family too.

Each week, we work to make the market welcoming for everyone. Handicap parking is available at either end of the lot. We’re growing our options for allergen-friendly foods. We participate in the FAM program to ensure access to fresh produce and essentials.

I’m still getting to know our vendors. I’m still getting to know you. But it’s already been such a joy to be part of this pocket of the South Hills.

Pittsburgh has always felt like a small town, even when it isn’t—and if I can help make our farmers’ market an extension of that feeling, I will.