With vaccinations available, the summer of 2021 enabled a brief reprieve from COVID and allowed for Morgan County Extension leadership to plan and conduct the 10th Annual Market in the Park in a safe manner for vendors and attendees alike.   Morgan County Extension Council volunteers are actively engaged in organizing and financially supporting Market in the Park to inspire a “grow local, eat local, buy local” mentality that celebrates our community’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, while fostering economic growth within Morgan County.

Held the first Saturday in August at West Liberty’s Old Mill Recreational Park, this year's event brought together forty Farmers Market members, local artisans, craftspeople and musicians to provide a space where the community can easily recognize and access locally produced foods and goods. Four hundred and fifty attendees were treated to free kid’s activities, shopping and sandwiches provided by a local meat harvesting facility "The Chop Shop" and a local celebrity chef.

Results of this event include:

•Increased support for local Farmers Market including attendance and sales

•New marketing outlet made available for many home based entrepreneurs

•Approximately $32,000 generated for the local economy and sellers

Leaders and many attendees applauded organizers for creating a safe community event and appreciation for being able to shop in person locally.