Lock Haven Council OKs Moving New Farmers Market to Thursdays

Kira, representing the Downtown Lock Haven board, asked the council to move a newly approved farmers market from Saturdays to Thursdays so four vendors — two returning and two new to the area — could participate in multiple nearby markets. "I know that you guys have approved to have the farmers market on Saturday," Kira said, then requested the new schedule: Thursdays, May 19 through Oct. 27, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the East Main Street parking lot.

Council members asked how many local merchants had weighed in; Kira said two business owners attended the downtown board meeting and said they were comfortable trying the change. Council member Stevenson summarized the downtown representation process and said he heard no opposition at the board meeting. Councillors also questioned whether vendors would have access to electric power for stalls; Kira confirmed electricity would be needed.

After questions and remarks about potential benefits to restaurants and retailers on a traditionally slow Thursday evening, a council member moved to approve the date change and the council carried the motion by roll-call vote.

The council also approved a related scheduling change to shift the city’s late‑September street‑closure weekend earlier (to Sept. 23–24) so the event falls under the insurer’s renewal window, a change staff said was necessary to include the date in a single application.

The council will monitor vendor participation, hours and any impacts on downtown businesses as the market operates under the new schedule.