It’s easy to see why Roanoke touts itself as one of the friendliest and warmest communities in Northeast Indiana. Residents are accustomed to a safe, pleasant environment, while visitors feel welcome within the small-town atmosphere.
Part of Huntington County, Roanoke is a fast-growing area thanks to its proximity to both Huntington and Fort Wayne. It’s especially worth a visit during the upcoming months, when First Fridays and the Roanoke Farmer’s Market resume outdoors for the spring and summer.
“Any time we can create an atmosphere of camaraderie in the community, it is a pleasure to be a part of,” says Hillary Halsema, 2024 market chair. “Connecting people in a community over food and fun is a great way to build relationships of all types and strengthen the community as a whole.”
Roanoke’s First Fridays begin on May 3 and reoccur June 7, July 5, and August 2 from 5-8 p.m. along Main Street. Activities include live music by the intersection of Second and Main Streets, food available from local restaurants and the Lion’s Club, children’s games and activities, and special events such as First Responders Night and the “ever-famous” cake walk, add Tammy Baumgartner and Tami Capozza, the 2024 First Fridays co-chairs.
“Roanoke First Fridays and the Roanoke Farmer’s Market are family-friendly events that bring the community together,” they add. “Together, we are looking forward to another great summer in our beautiful town of Roanoke.”
The Farmer’s Market starts back up June 7 and runs from 5-8 p.m. every Friday through Aug. 30, occasionally happening in conjunction with First Fridays. Vendors set up shop on Main Street between First and Second Streets, selling a variety of goods including produce, local meats and eggs, honey, prepared baked goods and breads, jewelry, crafts, candles, jams and canned goods, flowers, plants and more.
“These events are an opportunity for the community to support their local producers as well as gather together each Friday evening to enjoy a stroll down Main Street, grab some food, and listen to local musical artists as well,” Halsema says. “It is a great opportunity for the community to see and support local vendors they may not know are in or around the area and continue to support them into the fall and winter after getting to know them all summer.
“It also brings the community to the downtown area to support and get to know those businesses as well as see the work that the Roanoke Beautification Foundation does to make the town such a stunning place to visit,” she adds.
The Farmer’s Market’s previous success has led to an extended timeframe this year from previous years. In years past, the Market only occurred in July and August.
“Extending into June this year will be a great addition,” Halsema says. “We are excited to bring the Market back to a weekly status again.”
The Farmer’s Market is also seeking local businesses to support it in a “sweat equity” way by helping with the set up and tear down of tables and chairs for the music area, Halsema adds.
“These businesses will be featured on our social media for each Market they support. This can be a great way for businesses that are not within the downtown stretch to allow people to get to know what they do and where they’re located,” she says.
Visitors can park at Roanoke Park or in the municipal lot located on Third Street across from the Roanoke Town Hall. The Market remains open rain or shine and is organized and sponsored by the Roanoke Chamber of Commerce.
Additional details regarding First Fridays, the Farmer’s Market and other events happening throughout Roanoke can be found at DiscoverRoanoke.org. Farmer’s Market details can also be found at facebook.com/RoanokeFarmersMarket/.