For many, the answer is yes.
By Jake Rallo
Every week, or sometimes just once a month, neighbors head to their local farmers markets to stock up on fresh produce, hand-crafted goods and pantry staples from their favorite local vendors. These markets have become more than just places to buy food; they’re spaces where community, sustainability and tradition thrive.
The first recorded farmers market in the United States dates back to 1634 in Boston, with many others following soon after. Since then, the popularity of farmers markets has ebbed and flowed in response to historical events. For example, during the Great Depression, farmers markets saw a significant rise in use, serving as a vital food access point for many communities. However, their prominence declined sharply after World War II as supermarkets and large-scale food distribution became the norm.
Today, farmers markets are once again on the rise, with over 8,500 markets registered with the United States Department of Agriculture. With increasing interest in sustainability, local agriculture and artisanal goods, communities across the country are embracing these markets as essential hubs for both food and connection.
Having attended school in Ithaca, New York, and lived in Boston for a short time, I’ve come to romanticize my mornings spent at local farmers markets. Early morning walks with friends, sipping warm coffee and gathering a bounty of fresh produce for the week were parts of my routine. There’s nothing quite like shopping in the open air, far from the sterile lights that haunt grocery store aisles. Both the Ithaca Farmers Market and Boston’s Haymarket, the oldest outdoor market in the city, were integral parts of my week, and I believe everyone should have the chance to experience that rhythm of life. There’s something so peaceful, almost timeless, about walking to a farmers market. It’s a feeling I carry with me wherever I go.
Thankfully, Monmouth County offers a diverse mix of markets. The weekly farmers market at The Galleria in Red Bank features over 40 vendors every Sunday, offering a bustling, community-driven experience. Bell Works Fresh in Holmdel 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays leans into a broader lifestyle vibe, featuring not just food purveyors but also makers and artists. For a more intimate and charming setting, the Atlantic Highlands Farmers Market on Fridays is a quiet gem. But perhaps the most exciting addition is one of the county’s newer offerings, the Fair Haven Farmers Market, which brings a fresh energy to the local scene.
The Three Friends Behind The Fair Haven Farmers Market
Friends and locals Ana Anttonen, Elise Casey and Maggie Ludman are the powerhouse trio behind the vibrant Fair Haven Farmers Market. What began as Ana’s longing to recreate the farmers market experience she loved while living in Seattle quickly took shape when she teamed up with Elise and Maggie to bring the idea to life. With a shared “no hesitation” attitude, the three women began planning in October 2023 and, just eight months later, the Fair Haven Farmers Market launched in May 2024.
With a simple vision, sharp focus and a desire to create something more meaningful than just a transactional market, the first Fair Haven Farmers Market was a resounding success – every vendor sold out. So, how did they do it?
The women behind the market knew that location was key, and they believed Willow Street was the ideal setting. Nestled next to McCarter Park, just steps from downtown Fair Haven, and at the heart of several neighborhoods, the street offered accessibility, visibility and a family-friendly atmosphere. Its proximity to Fair Haven’s elementary school added a layer of community charm that felt undeniably right.
With the location secured and approved by the town, the next challenge was vendor recruitment. But how do you attract vendors when you have no reputation?
Like any other 9-to-5 sales job, the team took the classic cold-calling approach, with a healthy dose of local connections. Ana, having grown up in the area, leaned into her network of local business owners to land their very first vendor and community staple: Lusty Lobster. “I had the inclination that if we got Lusty Lobster, a lot of people would come,” she recalled.
From there, Ana, Maggie and Elise began calling potential vendors, pitching their vision and building excitement. Through hustle, persistence and a bit of serendipity, the pieces started falling into place.
A visit to a local farm introduced them to Meredith Stemmler @fromscratchnj, who played a crucial role in connecting the team with many of the vendors who now form the backbone of the market.
Choosing vendors wasn’t an easy task. In efforts to provide “everything you would need for a dinner party,” you will only find food or food-adjacent vendors at the Fair Haven Farmers Market. Of course, there is an exception for Fair Haven-owned businesses. In an effort to curate a very specific vibe, the team did its due diligence when deciding whom to allow to participate in the market and which vendors to skip.
The debut market exceeded expectations, generating buzz among both vendors and visitors. But it wasn’t just about the goods; it was the atmosphere. The market didn’t feel like the typical weekend errand; it felt like an event. There was a powerful sense of community that made it clear this was something special.
The energy was electric. This is not by chance. In executing the market, no details were forgotten. Live music, sidewalk chalk for kids and even bubbles contribute to the overwhelmingly happy energy associated with the space.
My first visit was on a quiet Saturday morning, or so I thought. Walking from my childhood home and arriving right at opening, I expected a slow trickle of people, but I was completely mistaken – the market was in full swing. The once still road was packed with locals and visitors from surrounding communities. I ran into friends I hadn’t seen in years, picked up what I needed to stock my fridge, and left with a huge smile on my face.
What Did I Buy At The Market?
Whenever I go to a farmers market, I try to arrive with a plan, but I’m often drawn to the vendors with the longest lines and the most compelling items.
Of course, I had to start with a coffee from Coffee Surf Co. I opted for their pumpkin spice cold brew, and it did not disappoint.
Right next door, the Crab Apple Flower Collective had a long line and brightly colored flowers that caught my eye. Did I need flowers? No. Did I walk away with two gorgeous bouquets? Absolutely.
Pickle Licious was high on my must-visit list, and their classic dill pickles and sweet chili variety lived up to the hype. Note to self: grab an extra pint next time. I finished mine before I even left the market.
Trying to stay focused, I made my way to From Scratch NJ for their whipped goat cheese with pesto and whipped goat cheese with jam. Perfect on toast, in eggs or straight off the spoon, these jars are a staple for me.
Remember what I said about long lines and compelling items? Here’s where I really got sidetracked. On my way out, I passed 29 Hance Bakehouse. Their long line and display case of sweet and savory treats reeled me in – a happy accident. I tried their loaded potato croissant and, honestly, it may be one of the best things I’ve ever tasted.
In addition to the vendors I visited, the market boasts plenty of produce, fresh dairy, organic-fed meat and more. Needless to say, there is a variety at the Fair Haven Farmers Market and you will definitely leave full.
What’s Next For The Fair Haven Farmer’s Market?
The Fair Haven Farmers Market isn’t going anywhere and, for now, it will continue with its monthly cadence. Ana and her team are proud of what they’ve built and are focused on making the experience even better, rather than expanding too quickly. When asked what the future holds, Maggie’s answer was simple: “My measure of success is if this goes on forever… Is what we’re doing sustainable forever?”
Ana, Maggie and Elise’s grassroots effort has grown into a true community success story. From giving up their weekends to researching new vendors and flawlessly executing what is now a beloved local tradition, it’s fair to say they’ve earned a great deal of appreciation. So, the next time you find yourself at the Fair Haven Farmers Market, keep an eye out for the three women in matching outfits, and don’t forget to thank them for all they’ve done to bring this vibrant gathering to life.
Don’t miss the last two Fair Haven Farmers Markets of the season Oct. 11 and Nov. 8.
Jake Rallo, part of the Rallo family dining legacy, is managing partner of River Pointe Inn in Rumson.
The article originally appeared in the September 18 – September 24, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
