A day full of family activities will take place in Menands on Saturday, Aug. 23, as the village celebrates its 90th anniversary with special events and, perennial favorite, Family Day at the Menands Farmers Market.
The day gets off to an early start as the Menands Monster Mile and 5K Walk/Run starts at 9 a.m. This inaugural event promotes childhood obesity prevention month. When the walk ends, there will be plenty to do at the Ganser-Smith Memorial Park.
“We have some live bands with Late Shift playing from 1-4, and from 5-8, The Oldies Show will be performing,” said Mayor Meg Grenier.
The fire department, which is also celebrating 90 years, will be steaming clams and grilling corn. Other organizations will be selling food as well.
“People enjoy the concerts and the picnic. We’ve been doing it for years,” said Grenier. “People come out to see old friends, make new friends and catch up on old times.”
The winners of the Grow Menands initiative will also be announced.
Family Day a popular showcase for farmers and more
Family Day at the Menands Farmers Market will take place for its sixth consecutive year, with Spotlight News a major sponsor of the event to promote healthy living.
Officially known as the Capital District Cooperative Inc., the Menands market was created in 1933 by 530 farmers. It is one of the oldest and largest markets in area and is located at 381 Broadway in Menands.
“It’s a way for the community to come out and enjoy all the market has to offer,” said Spotlight Publisher John McIntyre. “It’s a fun event that showcases the projects of local farmers and artisans in a hands-on atmosphere.”
Al Lansing, chairman of the Capital District Farmers Market Committee, said the market is not only a way for residents to get fresh produce that has been picked within hours, but it also allows farmers to interact with the consumers on a more personal level. He said those exchanges often dictate the type of produce he grows.
“I’ve diversified my offerings because people started to ask for new things,” he said. “Kale has become popular, and we now grow that. We also have leeks and more collards. If they’ll buy it, we’ll raise it.”
The day will include hayrides and tractor rides for the kids, along with live entertainment.
The sixth annual Family Day will take place at the market Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.