Lafourche Central Market opens Saturday

Lafourche Parish’s new covered marketplace, a $1 million haven for farmers, fishermen, cooks and craftsmen to sell their wares, opens at 8 a.m. Saturday in Raceland.

Lafourche Central Market on its inaugural day will feature at least 20 vendors selling various items, ranging from fresh shrimp, chicken, pies, hot sauce, wine and preserves to rosaries, paintings, flowers, woodwork and aprons.

“It’s going to run the gamut,” said Lafourche Parish Government special projects coordinator Julie Barrilleaux. “It’s something that’s for everyone.”

The 120-feet by 60-feet pavilion, in the works since 2007, was originally scheduled to open Aug. 31 with an appearance by U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu. Hurricane Isaac postponed the event, and it’s unknown when the senator will tour the facility, Barrilleaux said.

The market is adjacent to the Lafourche Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, 4484 La. Highway 1. It will be open the same time every Saturday, from 8 a.m. to noon, regardless of rain, Barrilleaux said.

The open-air pavilion features restrooms and overhead fans and a stage, where James Jag and Friends Cajun Band perform on Saturday.

“We want it to be a destination, where you can come out, have coffee, visit with your friends and at some point, maybe there will be breakfast and lunch available,” Barrilleaux said.

As of Wednesday, 20 vendors had signed up. Those interested in peddling their wares must register with Options for Independence, which rents the market’s 32 booths on a weekly basis.

Booth rental costs $20, and vendors must purchase a $5 occupational license from the parish, Options’ central market manager Brandi LeCompte said. For an application, call (985) 868-2620 or email brandi@optionsforindependence.com.

To cut down on third-party sales, vendors must be the person or a family member of the person who farmed the crop, caught the seafood or handmade the crafts, LeCompte said.

Organizers hope to feature guest chefs in the future in pursuit of making the market place a weekly social gathering place.

“I encourage anyone who would like to stay awhile and enjoy the band, to bring a chair,” LeCompte said. “We have plenty of room in front of the stage for dancing and seating.”

The $1 million project is a part of the Bayou Lafourche Corridor Plan, a joint effort by Lafourche, Assumption and Ascension parishes. It was paid for with Housing and Urban Development and Community Development Block grant funding.