The Festival Farmers Market invites the public to a birthday party this Saturday, October 2, at McCarthy Tire, Route 7, Cobleskill, beginning at 11am.
The FFM is celebrating its 25th anniversary of supporting the community and local farmers.
It has encouraged small, start-up producers and crafters by making fresh, locally produced vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, eggs, and syrups and crafts available on a weekly basis during the summer and fall.
Community members have also benefited from a local, small scale market that accepts Farmers Market Nutrition checks, Fresh Checks, WIC checks, and SNAP benefits.
Also, the market has promoted community programs by welcoming representatives from Cornell Cooperative Extension, Virginia and other community service organizations to explain programs and to provide needed services.
The FFM has recognized Constitution Day, Grandparents Day, and Family Farm Day and has promoted safety for families and children.
Nonprofit organizations have enjoyed rent-free days to sell pies, jams and jellies, and baked goods to support their own organization.
Market-goers are invited to stop by for cake and congratulate Donna and Charlie Olsen for their devotion and many years of work in achieving this milestone and thank them as they step back as managers to begin a new phase of their lives.