Farmers market returns to Captiva for new season
The Captiva Island Farmers Market has returned to the island for its fifth consecutive year.
From November through May, the event will take place on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the entrance to South Seas Island Resort. Organized by Local Roots — co-owned by islanders Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura, who also run the Sanibel market — it will offer a mix of vendors and products.
“It’s a great attraction for the visitors in the area for them to test some local fruits and some local treats,” Baer said, adding that locals love it because they can shop without leaving the island.
“We’ve also found how many people on the west side of Sanibel are coming to the market,” she continued. “And employees on the island also enjoy it as a different alternative for lunch.”
The market is open to everyone.
“It’s a little bit smaller and a little bit more intimate than the Sanibel farmers market,” Baer said.
In light of the ongoing pandemic, Local Roots is continuing its “grab-and-go” theme.
“We still encourage people to grab-and-go and not do a lot of social gathering, but it is wide open,” she said of the outdoor event space. “They can order in advance from any of the vendors if they want to.”
Hand sanitizer will again be available this season.
“We continue to adhere to heightened sanitizing measures,” Baer said. “Masks are not required, but they are encouraged if anybody has any underlying health issues or if they are nervous.”
There will be about 30 vendors.
“There’ll be 12 Seasons Farms from Alva. We’ve got My Exotic Fruits coming with fresh fruits. They also make smoothies,” she said, also citing empanadas, barbecue, treats from Angelic Desserts Bakery and Cafe, and crab cake meals to go from Molly Malone Seafood. “Island Seafood, so there’ll be fresh and local seafood. We do have fresh crepes and, of course, we’ve got fresh-made guacamole on site.”
“And there’ll be some local artisans with crafts products,” Baer added.
On Dec. 31, Local Roots will host a Holiday Market at the site.
“They can ring in the New Year by attending a holiday food and crafts event,” she said.
Pet owners are welcome to bring their pooches.
“Captiva is dog-friendly, so please feel free to bring your well-behaved pets,” Baer said.
Parking is limited, so golf carts, bicycles, carpooling and walking are encouraged.
She noted the resort’s recent switch to new hands.
“We’re excited to be back, and Local Roots looks forward to working with the new ownership at the South Seas Island Resort,” Baer said.
Residents and visitors are invited to swing by.
“If you’ve been to the market before, please come again. You’ll see many familiar faces,” she said. “And if it’s your first time, you’re encouraged to come. We think it’ll be part of your weekly routine.”
For more information, visit buylocallee.com or contact jmbaer@comcast.net.
The South Seas Island Resort is at 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva.
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IF YOU GO
What
Captiva Island Farmers Market
When
Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (November through May)
Where
South Seas Island Resort, 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva
Who
Local Roots
Details
Free and open to the community
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email