International UWGB Students visit the Broadway Farmers Market

Article by Salinda Yim and Tongil Kim

Being of service to the local community while attending university here in the U.S. is every international student's goal.  As newly-enrolled UWGB students from Asian countries, Tongil (South Korea) and Salinda (Cambodia), we were curious what a local farmers market looks like in Green Bay. When New Leaf Foods asked whether we would like to volunteer to report on the last amazing Broadway Farmers Market of the 2022 summer season, we were very happy to do so.

On September 28, a beautiful Wednesday afternoon under the clear blue sky, we visited the Boardway Farmer’s Market, situated on Broadway between Dousman and Walnut Streets. Although it was our first time there, it reminded us of home as there were some Asian food stores along the road. Walking along the market, you will find a small intersection, where people were also setting up booths and selling goods at Hubbard St. As we walked along the busy Broadway Street, we heard beautiful musical performances by local musicians. They made the farmer’s market a perfect place to socialize with friends, have fun on a family outing, or enjoy your afternoon date. 

Upon our arrival, we were surprised by the varieties of items they had at the market. Not only were there agricultural products but there were goods ranging from olive oil, flowers, clothes, handmade jewelry and even household goods at the booths.

We were delighted by the different kinds of food available such as bread, pizza, ice cream, and snacks; you would never run out of foods to choose from. Some tents were set up by local restaurants around the area that were just a few blocks away and some were food trucks from nearby. The prices were indeed very affordable for the consumers. You could get a bouquet of flowers for only 10 dollars, while it would cost more than that in other places. 

While we were walking around, we were concerned that people would feel uncomfortable having their picture taken but fortunately, everyone was so welcoming and were smiling for our photos. We stopped at a few booths to interview the sellers about their thoughts and feelings towards the farmer’s market. Most of the sellers felt happy to be there, but some said they were sad that this was the last farmer’s market of the year as winter is coming soon. We too were saddened to hear that this was the last farmer’s market, but we appreciated the fact that we could be here and capture all the beautiful moments.