Denise Lee
Jun 23, 2023
Highway 78 Farmers Market Transforms Saturday Mornings in Ridgeville with Explosive Growth and Community Impact
Press Release
Highway 78 Farmers Market Transforms Saturday Mornings in Ridgeville with Explosive Growth and Community Impact
Local farmers market grows from 10 to nearly 45 vendors in just months, becoming premier destination for fresh produce, local goods, and family fun
RIDGEVILLE, SC – Highway 78 Farmers Market has rapidly emerged as the premier Saturday morning destination in Ridgeville, transforming from a modest 10-vendor gathering to a thriving community marketplace featuring nearly 45 local vendors and hundreds of weekly visitors.
Located at 964 Highway 78 in Ridgeville, the market operates every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, rain or shine, offering an impressive array of farm-fresh produce, locally-made goods, artisan crafts, and specialty foods that celebrate the best of South Carolina's agricultural and artisan communities.
Remarkable Growth Reflects Community Demand
"The response from both vendors and customers has been absolutely incredible," said Denise Lee, Market Manager. "When we started just a few months ago with 10 vendors, we hoped to build something special for our community. To see it grow to nearly 45 vendors with hundreds of families visiting every Saturday shows just how much our area needed this kind of gathering place."
The market's rapid expansion reflects growing consumer demand for fresh, local products and authentic community experiences. Vendors range from local farms offering seasonal produce to artisan bakers, specialty food producers, and handcraft creators, all contributing to a vibrant marketplace atmosphere.
Spotlight on Local Excellence
Among the market's standout vendors, Peculiar Pig BBQ has gained recognition for what they call "the world's best grits," along with exceptional sausage, fresh pork, and frozen options for home cooking.
Yellow Dog Farm provides farm-fresh produce direct from field to table, exemplifying the market's commitment to connecting consumers with local agricultural excellence.
"We're not just selling products; we're building relationships," noted Lee. "Our vendors know their customers by name, families make Saturday morning market visits a weekly tradition, and children grow up understanding where their food comes from."
Community Events Drive Engagement
Highway 78 Farmers Market has distinguished itself through innovative themed events that bring the community together while supporting local businesses:
June 28 Tack Sale Markets connecting the equestrian community with local vendors
July 5 Peachy Celebration highlighting South Carolina's beloved peach season
July 12 Kids' Day Summer Fun featuring first responders, educational activities, and family entertainment
July 19 Christmas in July offering unique holiday shopping in a summer setting
July 26 Fire and Ice Food Festival celebrates spicy and cooling summer treats
"These events show that we're more than just a place to buy groceries," explained Lee. "We're creating experiences that bring neighbors together and give families reasons to spend quality time in our community."
Economic Impact and Vendor Success
The market's growth has created significant economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small businesses. Many vendors report that Highway 78 Farmers Market has become a crucial revenue stream, with some expanding their operations specifically to meet market demand.
"Our vendor loyalty program recognizes the commitment of our regular participants," said Lee. "These small business owners are the backbone of our market, showing up week after week to serve our community."
Fresh, Local, and Authentic Experience
Market visitors consistently praise the quality and variety available, from fresh sourdough bread and kettle corn to ice-cold lemonade and freeze-dried candies. The market's emphasis on local sourcing means customers can trust the freshness and quality of their purchases while supporting their neighbors' businesses.
Excellent music enhances the Saturday morning atmosphere, creating a festival-like environment that encourages families to linger, explore, and discover new products and vendors.
Founders' Vision Rooted in Community and Heritage
Highway 78 Farmers Market was founded by Denise Lee, an accomplished author writing from her Lowcountry farm, and her husband Steven, who works for Boeing while pursuing ecological conservation. After settling near Charleston in 2010, their love for the region's agricultural heritage and community connections inspired them to create a gathering place that celebrates local farmers and artisans while honoring the area's traditions.
Community Partnership Excellence
Highway 78 Farmers Market has formed a meaningful partnership with the Dorchester Heritage Center, whose mission is to discover, preserve, and promote the history of the inland Lowcountry by weaving the stories of our people, land, and culture into the fabric of daily life and future growth. This collaboration brings authentic historical programming to market events, including professional pirate performers and educational experiences that connect visitors with the rich maritime and cultural heritage of the region.
"Working with the Dorchester Heritage Center allows us to offer experiences that go beyond commerce," said Lee. "We're helping preserve and share our local history while creating memorable experiences for families." More information about the Heritage Center's programs and mission can be found at https://dorchesterheritagecenter.com.
Looking Forward
"We're just getting started," emphasized Lee. "Every week brings new vendors, new customers, and new opportunities to strengthen our community connections. Our goal is to continue growing while maintaining the personal, friendly atmosphere that makes Highway 78 Farmers Market special."
The market continues to recruit quality vendors and develop innovative programming that serves both the local community and visiting families from throughout the region.
About Highway 78 Farmers Market
Highway 78 Farmers Market operates every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at 964 Highway 78, Ridgeville, SC. The market features local farms, artisan food producers, craft makers, and specialty vendors committed to quality and community service.
For vendor information, event updates, and market news, visit www.highway78fm.com or follow on social media.
MEDIA CONTACT: Denise Lee, Market Manager
Highway 78 Farmers Market
Email: manager@highway78fm.com
Phone: (360) 340-7344Website: www.highway78fm.com
MARKET DETAILS: Location: 964 Highway 78, Ridgeville, SC
Hours: Saturdays, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Admission: Free
Parking: Free on-site parking available
HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
Images of market activities, vendor highlights, and community events available for media use
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