The inaugural Bemus Point Farmer’s Market program is off to a good start and has received many compliments from vendors, shoppers, and government officials. The market is scheduled for Saturdays through August 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1 Lakeside Drive. Submitted photo

BEMUS POINT – The Bemus Point Farmers Market is proving popular with both vendors and shoppers, even in its early stages.

A little more than a year ago, Bemus Point Village Clerk Brittany Mulkins presented to the Bemus Point Village Board of Trustees a vision for creating a Farmers Market for the quaint village nestled on the shores of Chautauqua Lake.

“I noticed several other municipalities had their own farmers markets, and I thought to myself, we should have one too,” she said.

The village held its inaugural Farmers Market event on June 14 and will continue to host them on Saturdays until Aug. 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1 Lakeside Drive, except for two specific Saturdays.

“This is our first year doing this, and we are not charging the vendors a fee,” said Mulkins.

Bemus Point Village Mayor Jeff Molnar said the village conducted surveys, and a farmers’ market was overwhelmingly requested. The trustees unanimously support the establishment and continuation of the village’s market into the near future.

Additionally, Mulkins indicated that the village’s market attracts between seven and 15 vendors. She expressed a desire to increase the number of produce vendors in the upcoming season.

“We have a lot of artisan vendors this year – and we welcome them, but I’d like to see more of a mix next season,” she said. “More fresh-produce vendors and maybe other types of vendors.”

Local shoppers have praised BP’s newest program enthusiastically, highlighting its positive impact.

“I love coming to Bemus Point Farmers Market, ” said Ann O’Dell of Jamestown. “It’s just a nice variety of vendors with a gorgeous view of the lake. …It makes for a nice trip out of the city.”

Molnar remarked, “It’s wonderful to see so many people visiting our village, shopping and making memories with their families.”