Visit Roswell: Give us the basics of the Roswell Farmers Market: How it came to be and how you operate it currently.
Christina: The Roswell Farmers Market has deep roots in the community, going all the way back to 2007 when it began as the Riverside Market at Riverside Park. It was a small, passionate effort to bring people together around fresh food and local makers. As the park and the market both grew in popularity, the location became too congested, and the market moved to the Hill Street side of Roswell City Hall. From there, it shifted again—still on City Hall property—to the lower lot near the bridge and historic square.
Under a previous administration, the market was denied use of that space and moved to the driveway of Roswell Presbyterian Church. While the community remained loyal, the location had major limitations—poor visibility, awkward access, and no sense of place. In 2024, the market returned to City Hall, where it belongs, and began a new chapter of growth and reimagination. Today, we operate every Saturday from April through November as a nonprofit market focused on connection, community, and curation. It’s more than a place to shop—it’s a place to show up, together.
Visit Roswell: What types of vendors can attendees expect to see? Is there a particular focus?
Christina: We’re in a growing year—both in size and in clarity. Our vendor selection is increasingly driven by our community’s values: quality, connection, and a sense of place. While we’re actively recruiting local farms, especially certified organic growers, we’ve also expanded our vendor approach to include food-and-beverage businesses with deep Roswell roots. That’s intentional. We’re more “Roswell-first” than “small business for its own sake”—a shift that sets us apart from how many traditional markets operate.
You’ll find a thoughtful mix of produce, flowers, baked goods, specialty items, and prepared foods—alongside community programming and opportunities to connect. We’ve also moved away from exclusivity in vendor categories. That’s been a change, and not everyone loves it, but we believe the community should decide what succeeds. We’re not here to protect profits—we’re here to build a space where good things can grow, side by side.
Visit Roswell: You often mention how important community is to you. Can you expand on that, with regard to the RFM specifically?
Christina: Community is at the core of everything we do. It’s not a side benefit—it’s the whole point. When we reimagined the market, we started with one question: How can this space bring people together? That shows up in the way we program events, how we choose vendors, and how we welcome guests. The market is meant to be a reflection of Roswell—beautiful, layered, neighborly, and full of life. It’s where you see familiar faces, meet new ones, and get the sense that this town is deeply connected.
How do you address seasonality, especially with local crops? We know fresh product is important to people. Is this a challenge or an opportunity?
It’s both. Seasonality is something we want to lean into more deeply, but we’re also realistic about our current position. Roswell is a bit farther from many of the farms in the region, and other markets closer to those growers often get their attention first. But we’re hopeful that the strength of our attendance and community spirit will begin to shift that. We’re actively recruiting local farms—especially certified organic ones, which remain our most-requested category. It’s a challenge, yes, but one we’re meeting with persistence and intention. We believe the right farmers will find their home here.
Visit Roswell: What is it about the Roswell Farmers Market that sets it apart from other community markets in surrounding cities?
Christina: The difference is in the feeling. The Roswell Farmers Market isn’t trying to be the biggest or most elaborate—it’s trying to be the most beloved. We’ve focused heavily on hospitality, storytelling, and curating a space that feels both local and elevated. The layout, the vendors, the music, even the way kids are welcomed to play—every detail is intentional. There’s also a unique collaboration here between the city, our team, and the community. It’s not just a market—it’s a rhythm, a ritual, a part of Roswell’s identity.
Visit Roswell: What is your vision for RFM, with regard to what it looks like in the future?
Christina: We envision a market that’s woven into the fabric of Roswell life—a true anchor for the community. In the near term, we’re focused on building better infrastructure, supporting more local farms, and expanding programming for families. Long term, we hope to become a place where new ideas are tested, where seasonal rhythms are celebrated, and where people continue to show up not just for the goods, but for each other.
Visit Roswell: Anything else you’d like to add?
Christina: Just this: the Roswell Farmers Market is for everyone. Whether you're coming for your weekly groceries, a treat with your kids, or just a walk among neighbors—you belong. And we’re so glad you’re here.