Big MC Farmers Market events

Throughout the spring, summer and fall, Madison County’s weekly farmers market has provided an opportunity for fresh, locally grown food and fellowship.
During the market’s second season – which comes to a close at the end of this month – between 10-20 vendors have set up shop at Hoover Ridge every Saturday, according to Madison County Extension Agent Brad Jarvis.

“From a customer standpoint and a vendor standpoint, we’ve definitely had some growth,” said Jarvis, who – along with a group of volunteers – spearheaded the market’s revival in spring 2007 after an almost decade-long hiatus.

As the market’s season nears its close, volunteers have organized two special October events featuring Madison County-grown food samples and other farm-friendly activities.

“We decided we needed to close out the season with a big event,” Jarvis said.

This Saturday, samples of Rider BBQ Beef and Haywood Honey will be available, along with products for purchase. Madison County’s Master Gardeners will also be on hand with gardening and landscaping tips.

An end of the season event – set for Saturday, Oct. 25 – will include a tasting of different apple varieties and sweet sorghum as well as samples of Poppa Weaver’s Pork. There will be free T-shirts and shopping bag giveaways, according to Jarvis.

Market goers can also take a hayride to a sorghum cooking demonstration on the Young Farmers/Future Farmers of America grounds behind Madison County High School.

What makes the Madison County Farmers Market unique from other markets in surrounding counties is its location, according to the Radiant resident. The county-owned Hoover Ridge property is a “destination” that provides an opportunity to socialize as well as do business.

“It’s a very social atmosphere, it’s more than just a business atmosphere…some of the events feel like family reunions,” Jarvis said laughing.

As the market continues to grow, the extension agent hopes more county residents will make visiting the market a priority each week.

“We hope people get up Saturday morning with a visit to the market on their ‘to do’ list,” he said.

Following the market’s October close, organizers will meet and start planning for next year. Jarvis has already started preparing for the 2009 season by working to get a sign directing U.S. 29 traffic down Fairground Road toward the market.

The Madison Farmers Market is at 8 a.m.-noon every Saturday through the end of October. The market is located at Hoover Ridge park off of Fairground Road near Madison Primary School.

For information about the Madison County Farmers Market, call the Madison Extension office at (540) 948-6881.