Hundreds of quacks appeared at Monocacy Creek Park this past Friday. Quacks as in rubber ducks that is.

The Fifth Annual Great Bath Duck Race, held during the Bath Farmers Market, July 25 drew in participants of all ages. As a fundraiser for the farmers market, individuals could purchase a duck for $5 and cheer it on in hopes of seeing it cross the finish line first.

This is the market's main fundraiser each year with 100 percent of the proceeds helping to keep the market alive and thriving. The first place winner received $250. Those placing second through 11 received other prizes, such as gift certificates for Ahart's Market and Red Wolfe Bar and Grille.

As a producers only farmers market, the Bath Farmers Market has at least 12 local vendors who sell their locally grown and handmade products each Friday. Some of these vendors include Graver Farmstead, Leigh's Jams, Jellies, and Goodies, Nellie's Breads and The Taza Truck.

Many of the vendors practice organic methods, use no harsh chemicals and apply natural alternatives.

Market Manager Allison Czapp said each year the number of vendors increases.

"Each year we do bring in some new vendors. This year we have honey, [so] Bramble Ridge Honey Farm is new. Silver Arrow with their herbal teas [is new]. And then we welcome other crafters or people as they have time to come to the Market or just want to try it out and see what it's like," Czapp said.

This is Czapp's first year as market manager, but she already has prepared goals for next year.

"I think we'd like to grow the market a little bit more, have some additional vendors that are here for the entire season, more events, … and just try to involve the community more," Czapp said. "We've really grown this year as far as our customer base goes, and it shows that people really do appreciate that we're here in the community providing fresh local foods for them."

Czapp said the market is a benefit for the community all around.

"It's just a great place where you can support your local food system, support your local farmers, bring the kids [to] play in the park, [and] hear some great music. [You can always] pick up something new; our farmers are so knowledgeable. They always have tips about how to cook or use [foods] that you may not be familiar with," Czapp said.

"Definitely seeing people buying local food," is one reward Czapp gains as market manager and as a local food and farm advocate. "It really does help local economies, and it builds communities and provides jobs for the farmers that are growing the foods. That's … the mission of the market," Czapp said.

Other upcoming events for the market include a peach party on Aug. 1 and a salsa competition Aug. 29.

The Bath Farmers' Market is open every Friday 3-7 p.m. at Keystone Park until Sept. 26. Visit www.bathfarmersmarket.org for more information.