ATHENS-Market goers can shake the hand of the person who feeds them when the Athens Saturday Market opens on June 7.
“You can be on a first name basis with the farmer who grew the tomatoes, okra, beans, herbs, watermelon and other produce that you buy for your table,” said Spirit of Athens Director Trisha Black.
SOA and its Athens Saturday Market Committee oversee the Saturday Market, which is sponsored by Alabama Farm Credit and other entities. SOA started the Athens Saturday Market last year, and it became a successful weekly event through the growing season.
The market is at the Green Street pavilion in downtown Athens at 409 W. Green St. The hours are 8 a.m. to noon each Saturday through August.
“We have most of your favorites from last season plus almost as many new ones,” said Market Committee Chairwoman Laurie Glenn. “Come out early and meet your friends, renew some old acquaintances and get to know the people from whom you buy the food you eat.”
Some of the new items this year include beef and fresh sausage. Other items include:
Produce: Tomatoes, okra, beans, potatoes, squash, peppers, onions, watermelon, cantaloupe, plums, herbs, beets, eggplant, salad greens, black berries, fresh cut flowers.
Homemade items: Hummus, baked goods, sausage and biscuits, breakfast wraps, smoothies, gluten free baked items, honey, canned goods.
Crafts: Pottery, soap, lotions, wood work items, hand pressed stationery, crocheted items.
The opening day entertainment will be performances by Alabama Blues Man Brotha Ric Patton.
“The committee cannot wait for you to see what we have in store for our second season,” Glenn said. “We are planning events for children and adults throughout the season to make this your Saturday morning gathering spot.”
To stay updated about upcoming Market produce and events, follow on Facebook at Athens Saturday Market. To receive weekly emails, contact athenssaturdaymarket@gmail.com.Those interested in becoming a vendor can contact Market Manager Mandy Chesnut at 256-206-5897.
The Limestone County Commission manages the Farmers Market during the week. It is open Tuesdays and Fridays from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
