Two years after its debut in 2007, Harvard’s Farmers’ Market has become the largest such venture in Central Massachusetts and is still growing. The number of vendors has increased to 25; the season, which starts Aug. 22, has been extended to the end of October; and the new hours every Saturday are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will still be located in front of Harvard Elementary School.

Many of this year’s vendors are veterans of the previous markets, so shoppers can still look forward to their favorite homemade pasta, decadent chocolates, maple syrup, fresh produce, and a variety of other foods.

Harvard Famers' Market poster, designed by graphic artist Leslie Bunnell.

In addition to commercial vendors, residents can participate by selling food that they have grown. They must contribute a small percentage of their profits to the organizers; all items must be food-related; and foods must be produced by the seller. Greayer says that residents who want to participate should call 978-456-8142.

The market also features volunteer local musicians and special events. Many of the musicians play music with folk influence.

As a special event this year, chef Betsy Block, author of such books as The Dinner Diaries and Raising Whole Wheat Kids in a White Bread World, will sign books and discuss creative ways to persuade children to eat vegetables. At another event, children will experience a day in the life of a farmer and sell their own harvest at market. As in previous years, the Great Dog Rescue of New England will sponsor a dog day, at which people will have the opportunity to adopt dogs.

“[The Farmers’ Market] has become a place where people are happy to shop a bit but also to see their neighbors, socialize, bring the dog, and let the kids run around. Everyone has a great time,” says Greayer. Recreating a rural and friendly atmosphere was one objective of the founding group. They also wanted to encourage the purchase of produce grown by local farmers.

In addition to organizers Lisa Frackiewicz, Greayer, Jen Sundeen, Davida Bagatelle, and Amy Sklar, volunteers are needed to assist with setup and breakdown on market days, as well as help in creating a formal nonprofit entity and writing grants for financial assistance.

For more information visit www.harvardfarmersmarket.org.