By Bella Caggiano 

Farmers markets are popping up in many towns, but by local consensus and feedback from residents outside of Norwood’s borders, the Norwood Farmers Market (NFM) surpasses them all! Could it be the diversity of stands? Or maybe the helpfulness of the vendors? What about its unique picturesque location on the town common with the option to enjoy a taste of the market on the Central Ave. picnic site? Maybe it’s entertainment? Activities for the kids? According to Norwood shoppers, all of the above and much more!

The ongoing success and expansion of the NFM starts with the commitment of Norwood residents supporting local, independent farms and businesses. With its return in 2022 after a Covid hiatus, the market was small but mighty, but has actually grown bigger than ever with vendor participation and shoppers each year. And according to NFM Organizer Peter McFarland and Market Manager Michele Taranto, the common will be filled with activity throughout the season!

The Norwood Farmers Market will again be open for 18 weeks this season, Tuesdays, June 17-Oct. 14, 2-6 p.m., (Aug. 5, 12-4 p.m.), Norwood Town Common. 

Market patrons who visited the past few years will see many familiar faces vendors, entertainment, and activities in the 2025 season, but also many new ones, keeping the market fresh with produce, homemade items, and fun for the entire family. The presence of NFM organizer Peter McFarland and market manager Michele Taranto will not change, however, and both will be present to assist and guide vendors and shoppers throughout the afternoon. and while the lineup of fruits, vegetables, homemade food and crafts, was still being finalized, fan favorites, such as, Riverdale Farm, Wild Willy’s Sports Cards, Barbosa Farm, Ally’s Cookies, Jordan’s Seafood, and many more will be on the common June 17th at the ribbon-cutting ceremony June 17, 2 p.m. 

In addition to the delicious fresh food choices, various artisan and specialty selections, and information offered at the Norwood Farmers Market, it also delivers lots of fun! Each week, the market offers outdoor games, but there will also be specialty-themed events, such as Opening Day, Pet Day, Independence Celebration, National Farmers Market Day, the Apple Orchard (new!) and Pumpkinfest! Musical guests and the Walpole Robotics Club will also be returning.

The Norwood Farmer’s Market is a collaboration with the Friends of Norwood Center with its primary initiative to buy local, eat healthy, and build community. Credit to the market’s success is spread through many areas: high school volunteers are essential to the efficient set up and breakdown of vendor tents, but as with any thriving farm, there are also many seedlings that help the market flourish: McFarland and Taranto are available to answer questions and ensure a fluid, efficient, educational, and fun experience, Market sponsors provide funding for staples and supplies, and the Norwood DPW and Norwood Town Hall aide with communication assistance through websites and signage. 

The Norwood Farmers Market has not only developed into a destination to purchase fresh local produce, food, and handmade items, but with the Central Ave. picnic area, crowds visit to enjoy and take in entertainment, music, demonstrations, eat, and participate in the fun, family activities on the Common! 

“Having Central St. closed enhances the feel of the Common, not just for the Farmers Market but for the community,” McFarland said. “It’s not the cutoff island at the busiest intersection in town. You can go by the Common any time of day and see people enjoying it, I never saw that before in my 40 years in town.” 

It’s not too late for vendors, businesses, and nonprofit groups to showcase and share their food, wares, creations, and information. Any vendors or organizations interested in participating in the Norwood Farmers Market can email [email protected]. Visit the Market Facebook page at ‘Norwood MA Farmers Market,’ to stay updated on Market news and subscribe their new weekly newsletter! 

“We are always looking for local businesses and organizations who want to connect with people and share their product, service, or mission,” McFarland said.