North Canton Farmers Market Organizers Hope to Strengthen City Identity, Create New Opportunities

In Dan Tullius’ words, he “finally got his act together” and formed something he’s wanted to for a while now: a North Canton farmers market.

Tullius, owner of Tullius Art & Design in Canton, teamed with owner Larry Owens to start the farmers market, which will take place from 8 a.m.-noon each Saturday between June 18 and Oct. 15.

“I think it’s going to be a good thing for North Canton,” Tullius said, adding it creates an opportunity for residents to shop for homegrown produce and other goods right in their hometown instead of traveling to other communities.

The farmers market, in the parking lot behind the Main Street Grille, also could bring in folks from surrounding areas like Jackson and Plain townships, Green and Canton.

Owens said the farmers market also will help create an identity for North Canton.

“I always thought North Canton needed an identity. Where’s downtown North Canton? This is probably the closest thing you have to a downtown in North Canton.

“If we can have more of these types of events in that area, this will become more of a focal point.”

Once the organizers cover their costs, (another player in creating the market) will donate profits to the Stark County Hunger Task Force.

Tullius and Owens have nailed down market rules, typed up vendor applications and found the perfect spot to accommodate all the participants and shoppers. Now what they need is the backbone of the farmers market: the vendors.

They’re fine-tuning their website (www.northcantonfarmersmarket.org) now and said those interested in becoming vendors can find more information there within the next week or contact Tullius at 330-497-8775 or tullius@sbcglobal.net.

Both Tullius and Owens see the farmers market growing after its first year. But for now, they’re learning as they go.

“We’re starting out. We have no expectations during this,” Tullius said. “We’re just going to jump in and let it grow and see where it goes.”