State of the City: Downtown Market ahead of its time

Off to the market!

Ocala’s Downtown Market is a pacesetter in the midst of a flourishing trend

BY ASHLEY DOBBS

Throughout the country, a trend is on the rise. We often hear the buzzwords ‘farm to table’ or ‘fresh from the market,’ but for many farmers and vendors this isn’t a new concept or trend. It’s a livelihood that grew out of necessity for growing and selling fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and other goods and bringing it directly from the field to the consumer without the middleman.

Local farmers markets have steadily been making a comeback and during the peak of the pandemic it became a food source for many residents. But long before the need for outdoor markets, the Ocala Downtown Market has been a part of the evolving downtown landscape.

In partnership with the Ocala Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP), the City of Ocala owns the facility, while the CEP has a managing director that oversees operations. The Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The now permanent structure provides a central location, shaded venue space, public restrooms and serves as an anchor for the southern point of the downtown area. Prior to the market relocating to its current spot in 2016, the space was utilized by the City of Ocala for housing city vehicles, but as the vision for the growth of the downtown expanded, so did the need to create a more stable location for the growing farmers market. Edible plants such as lemon trees, fig trees, orange trees, olives and grapes were carefully planted near the perimeter of the market to enhance the greenspace and carry the market-fresh concept throughout the space. Vendors interested in becoming a part of the market may reach out to Dawn Bowman, Director, Ocala Downtown Market, 352-629-8051 ext. 128.

Rain or shine, merchants are available to serve the community with a variety of options. With everything from fresh fruits and veggies, fresh seafood, cheeses, pasta, local honey and baked goods to jewelry, crafts, live plants, soaps and more, you won’t go home empty handed. With the addition of semi-permanent food trucks (available throughout the week and on Saturday) and a permanent coffee stand at the corner, the market has become a one-stop shopping destination for people to enjoy the downtown area while supporting local vendors and businesses. The market has grown so much over the past year that vendor spots now extend along the O-Trak, Ocala’s multi-modal pedestrian and bike path that runs parallel to downtown Ocala.

The first week in August is National Farmers Market week, and we want to encourage the residents of Ocala/Marion County to experience our local market. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular Saturday shopper, the family friendly environment is a great way to kick off your weekend. Kids will enjoy the playground next to the market and the Citizen’s Circle Splash Pad is only a few steps away! And remember, every dollar spent at a local farmers market contributes to the local economy, provides a sustainable food source, and supports a small business selling their crafts or goods.

Ashley Dobbs is the Marketing and Communications Manager for the City Of Ocala.