NT City Market voted top farmers market in the country

Niagara Gazette, Niagara Falls, N.Y.
·2 min read

Sep. 22—North Tonawanda City Market was voted the top farmers market in the U.S. in the 15th annual America's Farmers Market Celebration, sponsored by the American Farmland Trust.

The win delivers $5,000 to the NT market that can be used for market promotions. The contest showcases farmers markets across the nation that make difference for farmers, ranchers and communities.

The NT market was also voted the top market in the Northeast and in New York state.

A congratulatory letter which was received by NT City Market Manager Chris Delprince from the American Farmland Trust read, "Congratulations! I'm excited to inform you that with 18,326 votes North Tonawanda City Market has placed #1 in the nation, #1 in the Northeast region and #1 in New York. The 15th annual America's Farmers Market Celebration, presented by American Farmland Trust and Farmers Market Coalition was a huge success with over 2,000 markets participating. Thank you for an amazing year!"

"The excitement that this competition created was something like I have never seen before at our farmers market. From the farmers, vendors, media, community, businesses and people both young and old, everyone was all on board," Delprince said. " It was such a beautiful thing to see how people came together to support our market. ... The exposure from this has brought in shoppers from all over the Western New York region that have never been to our market."

Last year, the NT City Market finished second in contest voting and was ranked the 13th best market in the United States.

The NT Market, located at the corner of Payne Avenue and Robinson Street in the city, started in 1908. It has in recent years become a top destination for customers seeking fresh produce and other items.

"Our market is over a century old and has always been a special place where our wonderful farmers and vendors can come and present their products," NT Mayor Austin Tylec said. "We are so very proud of all the people who rolled up their sleeves to help get out the votes which put us over the top, especially our Market Manager Chris Delprince, who worked tirelessly to maximize the exposure that we needed."

In addition to bragging rights and funding, the market was also awarded a gift box of merchandise and complimentary memberships to American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition.