A new and improved Caldwell County Farmers Market will open to the public this Thursday, July 2, in a new site on South Jefferson Street.
Food, music and more will accompany the relaunch of the market for its 2009 season.
And while, with most fruit and vegetable crops still growing, the pickings might not be at their peak, Thursday’s celebration will offer the community an opportunity to see what participating growers have to offer this year.
The farmers’ market is located at 326 South Jefferson St., between McDonald Photography and the Kangaroo Express.
“I’m very optimistic about it,” said Kate Prince, executive director of the Princeton-Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber and the Caldwell County Extension Office are collaborating with market members to promote the revitalized bazaar.
“I think everybody’s really excited. Last year they only had a few vendors; this year we have six or seven already, and they can join at any time.”
Shane Bogle, county Extension agent for agriculture and natural resources, said dues for farmers’ market members are $20. To join, contact David Adams at (270) 365-3053 or the Extension office at 365-2787.
All the farmers participating in the market will be wearing aprons emblazoned with the market logo.
Reusable produce bags will also carry the logo. Both the bags and the aprons were printed by Sherry Belcher at Hometown Embroidery.
The market will also operate on an expanded schedule this year.
“There’ll be more hours than ever,” said Bogle.
Fresh produce will be offered six days a week, Monday through Saturday.
Monday, Wednesday and Saturday of each week will be “market days” with guaranteed hours — from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (or sold out) Monday and Saturday, and from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays.
“Those are guaranteed days where people will be there,” said Prince.
The market’s lineup is also expanding.
In addition to the traditional offerings of fresh fruits and vegetables, the market will offer plants, flowers and more.
“Davis Greenhouses will be bringing potted plants and vegetables,” said Prince. “They just came on board today, which I’m very excited about.”
Prince said the market also hoped to offer homemade jams, jellies, bread, baked goods and home-canned vegetables.
Market organizers plan to help participating growers pursue state certification to offer even more next year.
For this year, though, the fun begins at about 4 p.m. Thursday with a grand opening celebration.
Bogle said the Extension office, Master Food volunteers and Caldwell County Homemakers would have recipes and food samples available.
Local bluegrass musicians will provide music throughout the event, which is expected to run until 7 or 7:30 p.m., he added.
Ample parking is available in the rear of the property. The community is invited to take part in the grand opening and the market.
