Milton, Del. Farmers’ Market Collaborates with Dogfish Head Brewery for Weekly Success

The Milton Farmers’ Market in Milton, Del. is a way for community members to get together, socialize, pick up fresh food and enjoy local brews.

The idea for the market came from Milton Councilman Norman Lester, who had long attended community festivals in the town. After noting their individual successes, he started thinking about how to build upon those experiences, envisioning a useful and community friendly event.

After receiving approval from the town council and community, the first Milton Farmers’ Market started in 2011.

The Sussex County farmers market has grown in popularity over the years, starting as a monthly event, stemming into a weekly tradition for many. In addition to the frequency change, the Milton Farmers’ Market’s location has also changed throughout the years, ultimately ending up at Dogfish Head Brewery Market.

Mark Carter, Dogfish Head Beer & Benevolence Coordinator, says the collaboration between the Milton Farmers’ Market and Dogfish Head Brewery started as a way to work with the community. According to Carter, after a few venues downtown fell through, the farmers’ market vendors came to the brewery to see if they could be a venue for the market.

“It’s a time to come together and see each other face to face, also to come face to face with the farmers or the soap vendors…those folks are typically located right in the area,” Carter says.

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Hot bananas at the Milton Farmers’ Market (Photo: Milton Farmers’ Market)

The Milton Farmers’ Market is held every Friday from 3-6 p.m., with live entertainment changing weekly. The market is seasonal, running from April until October.

The Milton Farmers’ Market includes vendors from Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania, namely Backyard Jams & Jellies, Baywater Greens, Chinky Salts Oyster Co. and Pureblend Tea. The market offers a variety of goods including apples, black eyed peas, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots and more.

While shopping for your weekly necessities, don’t forget to try a 60 Minute IPA or Namaste by Dogfish Head. DFH donates a keg to the market, as part of a community fundraiser. In addition to helping out with the Milton Farmers’ Market, the brewery is also a sponsor of the Lewes and Rehoboth Beach markets.

“We think the market is extremely important because we make craft beer so we like to take pride in what we do and that means sourcing the best local goods possible,” Carter says.

On top of local goods, beer and entertainment, the Milton Farmers’ Market holds numerous festivals throughout the year, including an asparagus festival, peach festival and harvest festival.