French Market Returns This Saturday in New Lenox

Following a successful first year in New Lenox, the French Market returns this Saturday with new vendors and a slate of new activities. 

Last year, the French Market signed a three-year contract with the village in hopes of boosting participation in the weekly event. The 2010 farmers market , in part because the previous operator told his clients not to return, according to those who participated.

There was a noticeable difference last year, with about 15 vendors a week with French Market running the show. Village trustee Annette Bowden said it should be even better this year. 

The market returns this Saturday, May 12, and will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday through Oct. 6 in the south parking lot of , 1 Veterans Pkwy. 

Some of the vendors featured this year are:

• The Art Box: Ceramic tiles and pearl jewelry
• Dan-Dee Creations: Specialty dips, breads and muffins
• EnJoi Bakery: Pies, breads, pastries and cupcakes
• Hahn's Bakery: Amish pretzels, jams, mustards and bread
• KAP Farms: Fresh farm fruits and vegetables
• Lou's Old Fashioned: Local pickles, beets, preserves, salsas, pie fillings, mustards and apple/pumpkin butter
• Nature's Pasture: Grass-fed beef and pork
• Pampered Chef: Miscellaneous kitchen gadgets 
• Sonoma Farms: Olive oils, vinegars and gourmet foods
• Stamper Cheese: Artesian, smoked and aged cheeses
• Sugar Frost Treats: Sugar bars, baked goods and more treats
• Zeldenrust Farms: Plants and flowers, and later, produce
• Boy Scout Troop 755: Snacks and beverages 

The village is also putting more of an emphasis this year on bringing the community together around the market. Every week, residents may recycle their used oil and anti-freeze at the market, donate food to the food pantry and enjoy entertainment from the local high schools. 

There will also be cooking demonstrations, raffle prizes, hands-on workshops, children's activities and more every week. 

For the opening day, May 12, kids are invited to visit the New Lenox Fire Protection District's ladder truck. Home Depot is also offering a class for children about how to plan flowers in pots. Every child will get to take his or her newly potted flowers home in time for Mother's Day. 

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