Our wonderful Sequim summer has come to an end and so shall our Sequim weekly Farmers Market in downtown Sequim. Our last Farmers Market day is Saturday, Oct. 25, on the corner of Sequim Avenue and Washington Street.

Our new location at the corner, and the big lot a few doors down, has been a tremendous benefit to the downtown merchants, visiting tourists and of course, our local farmers and craft vendors. The increase in walking visitors and locals alike were a welcome sight and benefit to our little City of Sequim. The market will reopen next May in the same locations for at least another year, until the city hall complex is finished.

Many visitors who stopped at our market left with a very pleasant and welcoming impression of sunny Sequim. Our market is a major ambassador to those thinking about moving here. The friendliness of our vendors and homegrown produce and handmade crafts reflect the character of Sequim.

Thanks to city leaders, Sequim merchants and the community of Sequim and outlying county for their efforts, support and guidance in 2014. The phrase, “shop and buy local” has a direct impact on the livelihood of all Sequim merchants and customers. Speaking for our dedicated board and market members, we thank the community for a wonderful 2014 season and look forward to a repeat season next year in 2015.

If you have not visited the Sequim Farmers Market yet this year, this Saturday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., is a good time. There’s plenty of local free parking and lots to see.

The Sequim Farmers Market would not exist without the generous financial help from our Proud Sponsors who support our operating funds and expenses to allow the market to exist: BrokersGroup, Real Estate Professionals; Union Bank, Sequim Branch, Tim Collins, manager; Sequim Lavender Growers Association; Mountain Propane and Bell & Davis, Attorneys at Law.

Please let these businesses know of your appreciation for their sponsorship by referring sponsors to others and be sure to remember them for your current and future needs.

To join our growing list of Proud Sponsors for 2015, contact me at 452-7308 or e-mail val@whimsicalwoods.net. To become a valued market vendor for the 2015 season, contact our market manager, Lisa Bridge, at manager@sequimmarket.com.

Jackson is Sequim Farmers Market’s board president.