Bridgman Open Air Market begins season May 12

BRIDGMAN, Mich. -- Organizers of the Bridgman Open Air Market are welcoming the public to its seasonal opening on Sunday, May 12.

“We are so grateful for the love and support from the community and strive to bring only high quality, local items for our patrons,” said Roseann Stachowiak, manager at the Bridgman Open Air Market.

The market offers homegrown flowers, freshly baked goods, locally sourced honey, dog treats and numerous booths of handcrafted items made by local artisans.

"Every year the Bridgman Open Air Market strives to take on a charity to give back to our community," Stachowiak said. "This year Animal Aid of Southwest Michigan will be rejoining the market on a bi-weekly basis to find homes for their furry friends."

In August the market will host a back-to-school drive with all items donated going to the Bridgman Public Schools and then a food drive for local food pantries all September long.

“We know that these last couple years have been tough and with the amount of support we have been shown we want to give back as much as possible to the community,” said Stachowiak. “If anyone would like to donate, we have a spot for donations set up at our information and first aid tent; or one of the board members (easily spotted in board shirts and with a sign at their booths) would be happy to assist.”

Organizers say the market is welcoming back many of its previous vendors as well as making room for more and that, as it grows, so does the goal to keep all of the items available to the public locally sourced.

“For over 10 years, the Bridgman Open Air Market has been bringing the community homegrown and homemade items and I cannot wait to see it stand another ten.” Chelsea Hull of Chelsea’s Custom Creations.