A Community Affair

By Kelly Rodamer

“Every time you spend money, you are casting a vote for the kind of world you want,” Anna Lappe eloquently states. We have a choice in where we spend our money, time, and energy.

It’s with that notion in mind that the Owen County Farm and Craft Market continues to evolve, honoring its past while looking toward the future.

This May marks the 20th season of operation for the Owen County Farm and Craft Market. Last spring, Amanda Anderson shared the market's history. Here are some highlights:

●      The market started as a community service initiative from the inaugural Leadership Owen County class, highlighting local farmers and offering a space for artisans to exhibit their creations.

●      In 2011, the market was awarded grants from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and Kentucky Farm Bureau, which funded the construction of a pavilion that has become the market’s permanent residence.

●      Programs such as Double Dollar Days, the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, and WIC have provided seniors with access to fresh, local produce in a single location.

As the community has evolved, so has the market. Petzinger Farms and Ayres Orchard are among the remaining original members still actively participating, season after season.

“Since I’ve been a part of the market, I’ve been consistent in one thing: changing what I offer. I’ve offered everything from freshly baked bread, garlic, honey, fresh produce, and now produce plants,” says Petzinger. “There is always a place for whatever I have available.”

One of the greatest achievements of the Owen County Farm and Craft Market is its ability to integrate new residents into the tight-knit community. Several vendors have relocated from other parts of the state and travel from neighboring counties to participate.

Market president Karen Dengler shares, “My family has owned a cattle farm here in Owenton since the 1970s, so Owenton has always been my second home. When my husband, Steve, and I decided to live here full-time in 2022, I was looking for opportunities to meet more people and feel connected in my new hometown. I have felt very welcomed by fellow vendors and the community.”

With a background in art and gardening, Dengler’s goal for the upcoming market season is to attract new vendors and customers while continuing to build community support for local farmers and artisans.

“I’m hopeful for a thriving market of farmers, entrepreneurs, and craftspeople working together to provide a fun environment and local products for the community,” she says.

As Dengler, the board, and vendors begin planning for the 2025 season, they’re eager to continue increasing community engagement.

“We have special events planned, like testing evening markets, bringing back Kids Days, introducing themed market days, and hosting our Farm to Table Dinner,” Dengler shares. “The market is more than a weekly stop for your favorite things; we are a part of the community, and we do life together.”

Dengler’s plans for the market align with sentiments from some of the market’s regular customers.

“It’s important to have access to local produce, bakery items, and other products. I will always try first to support a local small business or a friend of our community,” says market regular Kristin Nelke. “I always look forward to checking out what the vendors have brought for the day. Some of my favorites are Fancy Hippie Handmade, Ayres Orchard, Dengler Farmacy, Lucious Land Farm, and Baked Provisions.”

While farmer’s markets are common throughout Kentucky, a desire to build up the next generation of farmers, crafters, and entrepreneurs sets the Owen County market apart. With special rates to accommodate middle and high school student vendors, the market encourages local students to spend their summer learning the intricacies of hard work and running their own businesses.

Former market treasurer Amanda Anderson, now a teacher in the Owen County School System, explains, “Our students have an opportunity to get real-life experience in product creation, marketing, and sales when they join the market. With a minimal market fee, we let them take a chance on themselves and pursue their dreams.”

Owen Countians can expect to see some familiar faces at the 2025 market, including returning vendors like Ayres Orchard, Astro Pantry, Baked Provisions, Cabin Cakes, Daily Bread, DWS Leatherworks, Fancy Hippie Handmade, Olds Family Farm, Petzinger Farms, and more as they return to the pavilion just before Mother’s Day.

Kids Days are set for May, June, and July. Each Kids Day will be themed and feature hands-on activities for children. The market will also give $2 to each child aged 2-12 to spend however they wish.

“I like it when I can get a little bit of candy,” says Wyatt Kendall. “And when there are bounce houses and activities for me to do with my friends.”

“It’s neat to buy things without asking my mom for money,” says Caitlin Hubbard. “We find the best pretzels and friends when we come. Mom says it’s important to go and see people who work hard.”

In addition to Kids Day, the market plans to host a Senior Day, Community Appreciation Day, and several other themed days throughout the season. A full calendar of events will be available on the market’s Facebook page, and flyers for local businesses.

“We are so appreciative of each and every person who chooses to spend their time and money with us,” Dengler says. “It’s a true testament to the value Owen County places on shopping local and supporting their fellow farmers, artists, and craftspeople.”

At the time of publication, the early vendor application window has closed. The market board accepts applications through July to keep up with the growing demand for seasonal produce and to build a fun and diverse shopping experience for the community. Applications are available by emailing ocfacm@gmail.com or in person at the Owen County Extension Office.