Year 19, Day One

Sarah Komatsu • May 7, 2025

Rain or Shine, Community Grows: Yesterday’s Market Kickoff

Last evening, our Corrigan Drive parking lot—once empty and quiet—bloomed into a vibrant hub of fresh produce, baked delights, and handcrafted treasures. Though raindrops fell intermittently, the energy beneath colorful umbrellas was electric: neighbors who’ve been counting down the days since winter lined up at stalls, eager to reconnect with the vendors they trust and admire.

Stepping into my very first market as Market Manager was a true privilege. Watching that empty lot transform into a bustling community space reminded me why we gather here week after week. There’s something magical about seeing folding tables laden with heirloom tomatoes, jars of seasonal honey, and fragrant bouquets appearing almost as if by enchantment.

Inspired by my recent read of Barbara Kingsolver’s Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, I’ve been reflecting on how vital our local businesses are in today’s economy. Choosing to buy from vendors right here in Bethel Park does more than support small farms and artisans—it lets us know exactly who grew our greens or baked our bread, forging a relationship built on trust and care that nourishes both body and community.

Throughout the market, I had the pleasure of chatting with vendors about collaborations brewing this season: tastings and recipe samplings, special guests for special holidays, and even some demos or workshops. Your feedback on these ideas—and suggestions for family-friendly activities, live local music, or interactive demos—will help shape not only the Farmers’ Market but all our Parks & Recreation events this summer.

I’m already counting the days until next week, when that same parking lot will come alive again—and again after that—each market more colorful, more fragrant, and more joyful than the last. Keep an eye on our Farmers’ Market page for updates, recipes, and event announcements as the season unfolds.

Thank you to every vendor who braved yesterday’s rain and to every neighbor who showed up ready to celebrate local food and community spirit. Here’s to many more market mornings together!

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Avoid Street Parking During Snow Events

By David Cable • December 9, 2025

Thank you for your cooperation!

Bethel Park Farmers' Market #1

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 .