Manayunk-Roxborough Co-op kicks off 2014 farmers market season with Main Street get together

Residents of Roxborough and Manayunk gathered at Tiny Terra Ferma in Manayunk on Wednesday evening to celebrate the launch of the Manayunk-Roxborough Food Co-op Initiative’s 2014 Farmers Market.

The annual farmers market held on Saturdays in Pretzel Park will kick off its season this Saturday, May 17.

As local band Aly Cat played, guests enjoyed a meal provided by a handful of the 2014 vendors including burgers from Philly Cow Share, salad by Pinelands Produce, and desserts by Lavinia’s Cookies, Makin’ Whoopie Kitchen, and Really Fresh Vegan.

The Manayunk-Roxborough Food Co-Op Initiative was established in 2012 out of the community’s desire for fresh, local food. While the members continue to work towards opening a brick-and-mortar store, the weekly farmers market serves as a way to maintain community presence and outreach.

As new and sustaining members gathered on Wednesday, all seemed hopeful for this year’s market and the prospect of a co-op in the close future.

“The launch party is a great way to celebrate the hard work all these people have put into making the market happen and gives the community a chance to meet the vendors,” said Alex DiFilippo, the market’s manager. “We’re excited to get the season started.”