New winter farmers market is heading to Patchogue

A new farmers market experience is coming to Patchogue.

This weekend the Garden Farmers Market will begin hosting its Winter Farmers Market and Craft Fair every Saturday and Sunday at the Fantastic Gardens of Long Island on 67 Avery Ave.

The times are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event, which will run throughout the winter, is free to the public and features dozens of vendors, local artists, and food trucks from across the island and beyond.

There will be a heated greenhouse for shoppers to stay warm during the cold months.

Among the merchants will include Mama’s Cuban Kitchen Food Truck, Horman’s Pickles, Farm Fresh Potions, Mimi’s Wreaths, and more. (See the full list below.)

One of the friendly faces you’ll see at the market is Babylon resident, Jennette Lotrean, who organizes the event.

She will be tabling her own business, Jaylo’s Wine Shop. 

The wine connoisseur said after the COVID-19 lockdown caused her to lose her private tutoring business, her income practically disappeared overnight. 

“I need to figure something out, and I need to figure it out now,” said the mother, who has a 2-year-old son, Hunter. “I got into the wine business because it was essential.” 

The full-time wine vendor said it was her mission to find a proper, indoor venue and the spacious, well-ventilated greenhouse at the Fantastic Gardens of Long Island ended up being the perfect spot. 

“Everyone is just really excited to have something different in the area, to have something that is safe, and get some local goods that they wouldn’t be able to find in a supermarket,” she said.

For updates on vendors, which will vary weekend to weekend, follow the Garden Farmers Market on Facebook.

Top: Fresh bread from a vendor, photo by Dave Takisaki via Unsplash.