Located next to Wee Kirk Church in Ben Lomond, the community-focused Wee Kirk Market will offer an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, handmade crafts and delicious foods beginning June 1. (Courtesy of BLVA)

The Ben Lomond Village Alliance (BLVA) is now accepting new vendor applications for the highly-anticipated Wee Kirk Market—an old-fashioned, fun-filled farmers and makers market debuting this summer on June 1.

Held at the historic Wee Kirk Church in the heart of Ben Lomond, this charming community market will take place on the First Sunday of each month from June through October, 9am-1pm, with a special evening Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 4-8pm. Dates for the monthly Market are June 1, July 6, Aug. 3, Sept. 7, Oct. 5 and Dec. 13.

“We’re excited to create a vibrant gathering place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the best of the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond,” said Blake Holiday, executive director of the Ben Lomond Village Alliance. “Ever since we founded the BLVA last August, we’ve had a vision for a community market and our Task Force has been working hard to make it happen. We aim to celebrate our region’s agricultural bounty, artisanal craftsmanship and the spirit of togetherness that makes Ben Lomond so special.”

The Wee Kirk Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a celebration of all things local. Located next to the quaint Wee Kirk Church, this community-focused market will offer a delightful array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, handmade crafts and delicious foods. In addition to fruits and veggies, prepared foods and food trucks, visitors will enjoy live music, participate in family-friendly activities, and explore the unique creations of talented local makers.

By supporting the market, attendees not only discover exceptional products but also contribute to the local economy and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Ben Lomond.

The BLVA’s Market Task Force Committee is currently seeking a diverse array of vendors to bring the market to life. Whether you’re a local farmer with fresh, seasonal produce, an artisan crafting handmade goods, a food truck serving delicious eats, or a musician looking to entertain a lively crowd, the Wee Kirk Market welcomes your application.

In addition to traditional vendor booths, tabling opportunities are available for community organizations to share resources, along with spaces for service providers to offer experiences like chair massages, and kid’s activity coordinators to engage younger visitors. Musicians and performers are encouraged to apply for one of the market’s paid monthly entertainment slots, offering a relaxed and joyful ambiance.

Interested applicants can learn more and complete the 2025 Vendor Application online by visiting benlomondvillage.org/newvendors/, where a mail-in form is also available. Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with applicants notified of decisions by May 1, at the latest.

To ensure a diverse and balanced market experience, the Committee will carefully curate vendor selections. Preference will be given to vendors whose products are locally made or sourced and who practice sustainability. The market particularly encourages participation from Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito County growers and creators.

“We can’t be happier that this new market is coming together,” said Dr. Steve Leib, co-owner of the Wee Kirk Church and BLVA Health and Happiness Committee chair. “Built in 1891, the Wee Kirk was the first church building in the San Lorenzo Valley and it has served the community for more than 130 years, so we’re thrilled to open our doors to host this new celebration of Ben Lomond’s creativity and community spirit.”

The Wee Kirk Market is also seeking volunteers to help out during the events, specifically a market manager and deputy manager to oversee market operations, as well as friendly greeters to welcome attendees and monitors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. To sign up, visit benlomondvillage.org/weekirkvolunteer/.

For more information, to apply as a vendor, or to learn how to get involved, visit benlomondvillage.org/weekirkmarket/.

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A staff member wrote, edited or posted this article, which may include information provided by one or more third parties.

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