“It is growing,” says Wes Pederson who runs the Team Smok Ring BBQ stand at the market. “Every year there seems to be more and more people coming.”
The market checks a lot of boxes.
You want fresh and tasty food? Check.
“You can pick up fresh produce from farmers and you can check out the great food in the area, such as barbeque with the smoked gouda mac and cheese,” said Angela Conley, a Main Street Market volunteer. “People love it.”
You want handmade items and knick knacks? Check.
Said Conley: “It’s a great way to shop local vendors such as crafters and artisans.”
You want music? Check.
Earlier this month, a local band performed at the market, playing songs, including the classic Animals hit, “House Of The Rising Sun.”
“We want people to come out, enjoy our city, enjoy great food, enjoy your neighbors,” said Centerville Mayor D. Love. “What a great opportunity to be a part of Centerville.”
Chill vibe
The market has a chill vibe, as people stroll the street checking out the many items available.
“I think after the pandemic people really wanted to get out, experience the great outdoors,” Conley said. “Connect with neighbors, with friends, with family and get fresh produce.”
“My motto is, we’re stronger together,” Love said. “Anytime we can bring people together I think it’s always a bonus.”
The Main Street Market is no longer Centerville’s little secret.
Said Love: “Centerville is now becoming known around the state.”
“We have people coming, yes from Centerville,” Conley said. “A lot of people walking and biking. But there’s also a lot of people coming from the whole north metro and even farther out especially as people bring in friends and family from outside of the area.”
“Centerville!” Love proclaimed. “We’re the center of things, right? So what better place to bring people together.”
Better BBQ than Kansas City or Memphis
Pederson believes his Team Smok Ring BBQ is better than anything you can find in Kansas City or Memphis.
“This is way better,” Pederson said. “You gotta try it out before you go.”
For Pederson, part of the joy of being at the market is getting outside on a hot July night.
“I love the community aspect of all this,” Pederson said. ” It’s a great opportunity to come out. Good food makes people smile.”
The Main Street Market runs every Thursday in the summer months from 5:30 to 7:30 pm and is located next to Centerville Elementary School, where parking is free.
