Local shoppers will have two opportunities this fall to discover handmade goods, meet area makers and support small businesses as the owners of Ruskin Fresh Market expand their community market offerings.
The Big Bend Market, which organizes monthly vendor markets in partnership with Ruskin Fresh Market and other area locations, will host its next Ruskin Market on Sunday, September 6, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Ruskin Fresh Market, located at 2619 14th Ave. SE in Ruskin. The indoor market will feature a curated selection of local vendors offering handmade products, artisan goods and other unique items.
The market organizers emphasize a carefully selected vendor lineup designed to provide shoppers with a diverse mix of products. Handmade items and products created by local makers and artists receive priority, while produce vendors, multilevel marketing businesses and direct-sales companies are not accepted.
Vendor space for the September Ruskin Market is currently full, with organizers maintaining a waitlist. Vendors are selected based on factors including product quality, presentation, social media engagement and their ability to help promote the event.
The market concept is part of a growing effort to create regular gathering places for local shoppers and small businesses throughout the SouthShore area.
The Big Bend Market also will bring its Wimauma Market to Lovelock Ranch, located at 17320 Carlton Lake Rd. in Wimauma, on Sunday, September 20, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The indoor vendor market will offer another opportunity for residents to shop from local entrepreneurs, artists and makers in a community-focused setting.
The events build on Ruskin Fresh Market’s role as a local destination since opening in April 2024. Founded by Nicole and David Ferrera and their family, the market was created to provide the Ruskin community with convenient access to fresh produce and locally sourced products.
In addition to fruits and vegetables, Ruskin Fresh Market carries items such as Amish jams, pretzels and chips, local Ruskin honey, milk and cheese and locally sourced, grass-fed beef.
The Big Bend Market hosts monthly markets in Riverview, Ruskin and Gibsonton, along with collaborations in Tampa. Information about upcoming markets and vendor applications is available through Instagram at @thebigbendmarket.
The September markets provide shoppers with a chance to discover one-of-a-kind products while supporting the local entrepreneurs and creators who help strengthen the SouthShore community.
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