News Summary
The Aiken County Farmers Market celebrated its 70th anniversary with a festive event featuring cake and community engagement. Local officials praised the market’s impact on agriculture and community bonds. Located in the Central Savannah River Area, the market showcases fresh produce and goods from local farmers, continuing its legacy as one of South Carolina’s oldest markets. The market serves as a hub for community interaction and supports local agriculture, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Aiken, South Carolina – The Aiken County Farmers Market marked its 70th anniversary on May 17, 2025, celebrating seven decades of service to the community. The event took place at 115 Williamsburg St. S.E. shortly after 9:30 a.m., featuring cake, gift bag giveaways, and proclamations from both the Aiken City Council and the South Carolina Senate.
Eric Gordon, the City of Aiken Tourism Coordinator, expressed pride in the market’s long-standing role in the region, highlighting its commitment to supporting local agriculture and fostering community bonds. Mayor Pro Tempore Ed Girardeau, who has fond memories of visiting the market with his mother for over 60 years, acknowledged the significant impact the market has had on generations of residents.
The Aiken County Farmers Market, owned by the city and overseen by the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department, attracts approximately 12,500 visitors and sees around 26,000 visits annually. Customers often appreciate the quality and variety of local produce available, which enhances their shopping experience. Farmers like J.B. Holston and Andy Gunnells have deep connections to the market; Holston has memories dating back to his childhood in 1956, while Gunnells has sold his produce at the market for over 20 years.
Located in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), the market sources its local foods primarily from surrounding farms. It offers a diverse selection of products, including fresh produce, baked goods, meats, honey, and handmade crafts, providing residents access to quality, locally-sourced products year-round. The market is open every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The Aiken County Farmers Market has historical significance as one of the oldest county farmers’ markets in South Carolina, continuously serving the same location since its inception on May 21, 1954. The market first opened its doors to the public following a parade featuring 4H and Future Farmers of America students.
In addition to regular market activities, visitors have the opportunity to tour individual farms as part of the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour, a program that includes Aiken County among its participating regions. This tour further strengthens the connection between local farmers and the community, enhancing appreciation for agricultural practices and the sources of the community’s food.
The anniversary celebration serves not only as a commemoration of the market’s rich history but also as a reminder of its vital role in promoting local agriculture and providing fresh, nutritious food options to Aiken County residents. The continued operation of the Aiken County Farmers Market underscores the importance of supporting local farmers and maintaining a strong agricultural community.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken County Farmers Market
- Wikipedia: Farmers’ Market
- WRDW: Local Farmers Get Spotlight
- Google Search: Aiken County Farmers Market
- Aiken Standard: Aiken County Farmers Market Anniversary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Farmer
- WRDW: Support Local Farmers
- Google News: Aiken Farmers Market
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
