JUNE 25, 2009 ISSUE
Farmers’ Market Weekly Update
As the peak of harvest season approaches, more and more products are becoming available at the farmers’ markets. Rain or shine, the High Country’s farmers’ markets will be open this weekend.
Watauga County Farmers’ Market
Farmers’ Market Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of your farmers’ market shopping experience.
•Bring small bills. It’s easier for sellers to make change.
•Ask questions. Learn about unfamiliar varieties and even how to prepare them.
•Go early for the best selection.
•Go late for the best deals.
•Use large, reusable bags or baskets. Eliminate the need for plastic or paper bags.
•Reuse egg cartons, flower pots, berry baskets and bags.
•Shop cooperatively with friends or family. Buying in bulk could save you money.
•Do not bring pets except service animals.
•Bring a picnic. Supplement your meal with desserts, fruits, veggies, cheeses, bread and coffee from the market.
The Watauga County Farmers’ Market is planning a series of cooking demonstrations for the Wednesday afternoon markets—which take place from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.—featuring local chefs from the area's finest restaurants. No sales will be allowed before 4:00 p.m. to give the vendors time to set up properly.
Summer fruits are starting to come in well. Carol Davis and Susan Jacoby, The Blueberry Ladies, returned to the market this past Saturday and will be back again this week with even more of their harvest. Jerry Harvey will have plenty of blackberries. The selection of local vegetables is starting to increase as well, with cucumbers, different types of squash, garlic and cabbage being spotted around the market.
Pasta Wench Andrea Morrell will offer gorgonzola, pine nut leek ravioli, pesto ravioli and sautéed pepper and onion ravioli. A wide variety of baked goods and plenty of local meats will also be available.
The Watauga Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to noon and every Wednesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. To find Horn in the West, turn next to First Citizens Bank on Highway 105 Extension and go to the top of the hill. For more info, call 828-355-4918 or click to www.wcfm.info.
Ashe County Farmers’ Market
The Ashe County Farmers’ Market is located on the Back Street in downtown West Jefferson and is open every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. through October. After the second Wednesday in July, it will begin opening on Wednesdays as well.
More than 100 vendors sell wholesome fruit and vegetables, farm-fresh meat and eggs, fresh herbs and flowers, and all sorts of arts, crafts and music to the market. For more info, click to www.ashefarmersmarket.com.
High Country Farmers’ Market
The High Country Farmers' Market is open for the season at the new location at Earth Fare on King Street in Boone. Hours are Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For more info, contact Carol Miller by phone at 336-385-9419 or by email at pfvinegars@yahoo.com.
Johnson County Farmers’ Market
The Johnson County Farmers’ Market is open for its first season on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Tuesday night markets will start on July 7 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The marked is located just off the intersection of Highways 421 and 167 in Mountain City, locally known as Shouns Crossing, in the metal quonset building. The freshest veggies, meats, eggs, plants and local crafts are available. For more info, contact Tamara at 423-727-2791 or Laura at 423-727-9581.
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