Community
Western Sustainability Exchange (WSE) is thrilled to announce the upcoming 2026 season of the Livingston Farmers Market, returning to Miles Band Shell Park this summer. As preparations are underway, WSE is proud to share that vendor fees will remain unchanged for the 2026 season—thanks to generous community support.
This milestone was made possible by July Hardesty of Edward Jones, who has signed on as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 Livingston Farmers Market, and by a generous donation from Gregory and Robin Blanc Mascari. Their leadership and commitment ensure that local farmers, ranchers, and small businesses can continue participating without additional financial burden.
“For us, the Livingston Farmers Market has always been about community first,” said Shannan Mascari of Western Sustainability Exchange. “We are incredibly grateful to July Hardesty and to Gregory and Robin Blanc Mascari for stepping forward at a pivotal moment. Their generosity allows us to keep this beloved event accessible to vendors and the public alike.”
For the past ten years, the City of Livingston has generously allowed WSE to host the Market at Miles Band Shell Park at a deeply discounted rate. During that time, the Market has flourished—drawing thousands of visitors each week and generating significant economic activity for local producers. As the event has grown in popularity, so too has the impact on park facilities and city resources.
Under a new agreement, park rental rates have increased. While the new rates present real challenges for a nonprofit organization hosting a free community event, WSE acknowledges that some increase was expected in order to reflect rising operational costs and wages associated with managing and maintaining the park. The City’s decade of support played a vital role in building the Market into what it is today.
Western Sustainability Exchange encourages community members to channel their passion for the Market in positive and constructive ways.
“The Livingston Farmers Market exists because of community spirit,” WSE leadership added. “When obstacles arise, we believe they are best addressed through dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect. Hostility toward public officials do not reflect the values that make this market—and our town—so special.”
Community Support Still Needed
While the Presenting Sponsorship and recent private donations have helped stabilize vendor fees, additional sponsorships and community contributions are still needed to fully fund the 2026 season. Costs associated with operating the Market extend beyond park rental and include staff salaries, insurance, permits, marketing, equipment, and many behind-the-scenes logistics required to host a safe, welcoming, and successful event each week.
As a free community gathering space that supports local agriculture and keeps food dollars circulating locally, the Livingston Farmers Market relies on business sponsorships and individual donors to remain accessible to all. Community members and local businesses interested in sponsoring or supporting the Market are encouraged to contact Western Sustainability Exchange directly.
The Livingston Farmers Market remains a free, family-friendly event dedicated to supporting local agriculture, strengthening the regional food system, and fostering connection. WSE looks forward to another vibrant season filled with fresh food, live music, and neighbors gathering together each Wednesday evening.
Community members interested in sponsoring, volunteering, or supporting the Market are encouraged to contact Western Sustainability Exchange directly by visiting www.LivingstonFarmersMarket.org or contact Shannan Mascari at info@westernsustainabilityexchange.org
About Western Sustainability Exchange
Western Sustainability Exchange is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building resilient communities through local food systems, agricultural support, and community-driven programming.