Farmville, PITT COUNTY — For nearly 30 years, the Leroy James Farmers Market in Pitt County has been a Saturday staple, fostering community between vendors and customers. However, changes are on the horizon following the Pitt County Board of Commissioners’ recent approval of a new calendar for 2025.
The revised schedule reduces the number of market days down to just one day for several months, a decision that has sparked frustration among some vendors. They expressed concerns that fewer operating days will hurt their businesses.
Noel Smith, who became the market’s manager in 2024, acknowledged these challenges and said she is focused on ensuring the market remains a vibrant hub for the community. “I really put a lot of energy into marketing it well and being clear with the community about what our days are so we can hope to get a big crowd,” Smith said…