Fifth annual Bensonhurst Greenmarket kicks off

The green scene was alive, rain or shine on Sunday, June 5 as GrowNYC kicked off the Bensonhurst Greenmarket for the fifth summer in a row.

Featuring a short opening ceremony complete with live jazz, the day was as enjoyable as it was delicious. Hosted by Councilmember Vincent Gentile, opening day at Milestone Park (18th Avenue between 81st and 82nd Streets) was a great start to a summer of fresh veggies and produce, local eats and local charm.

“Located inside Milestone Park, this Sunday market brings the Chinese, Italian, and Hispanic population from the multiethnic neighborhood of Bensonhurst together to enjoy a relaxing Sunday in the park, play dominoes, catch up with friends, and shop for fresh fruits and vegetables,” GrowNYC, the non-profit organization that organizes the market every year, says on its website.

This season’s treats include Breezy Hill Orchards pears, apples, cider, and baked goods from Dutchess County, NY; El Poblano vegetables and specialized Mexican herbs from one of the last remaining farms in the city of New York, in Richmond County; Kernan Farms vegetables from Cumberland County, New Jersey; Knoll Krest Farm eggs and chicken from Dutchess County, New York; and Nature’s Way Farm honey and candles from Chemung County, New York.

“The Bensonhurst Greenmarket, now in its fifth year, continues to provide diverse, farm-fresh and local produce for the community to enjoy every Sunday until November 20,” said Gentile. “We had a great opening day as the rain held off and live jazz echoed in Milestone Park.”

The Bensonhurst Greenmarket is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until November 20.

Cash, EBT/Food Stamps, Debit/Credit, WIC Vegetable and Fruit checks and FMNP coupons accepted. For more information, visit www.grownyc.org.