In order to attract shoppers, the University said it hosts a variety of events—including performances from musicians and a book festival—in addition to handing out fliers and sending emails to attract shoppers.

“We will continue to support the farmers’ market in Allston in a variety of ways and encourage local residents and Harvard affiliates to help us generate a successful market environment,” said University spokesperson Lauren Marshall.

But some residents feel that Harvard’s efforts have not been successful.

“When it’s just you and five other shoppers, it doesn’t really matter what kind of creative programming they have,” said resident Harry E. Mattison. “As far as farmers’ markets go, I would rank it toward the bottom.”

Some shoppers said that even though the market is smaller than many others, they still appreciated having a farmers’ market in Allston.

“It’s near my work so it’s convenient,” said Gina Halstead, who works for Harvard Business School. “My co-workers and I all come here to take a break, shop, and go back to work.”

—Staff writer Rebecca D. Robbins contributed to the reporting of this story.

—Staff writer Nathalie R. Miraval can be reached at nmiraval@college.harvard.edu.