ATHENS-Lovers of fresh produce can head to the market this weekend to meet their favorite growers and some new vendors.
The Athens Saturday Market will kick-off its season on Saturday, June 6, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Farmers Market pavilion on West Green Street. The Spirit of Athens, a nationally accredited Main Street Program, operates the Athens Saturday Market every Saturday from June through August. Randall Peek is serving as the Market’s manager this season.
“Our mission is to support local agriculture and increase economic opportunities for farmers, small businesses and artisans,” said Spirit of Athens Executive Director
Trisha Black
. “We also want to educate the public and provide access to healthy local foods and to build a vibrant gathering place for Athens residents and visitors.”
In 2014, the Athens Saturday Market received state certification from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries Farmers Market Authority. The Alabama Certified Farmers Market Program promotes and identifies a market place for Alabama grown fruits, vegetables, plants and other products made and/or processed in Alabama.
Laurie Glenn, chairwoman of the Athens Saturday Market 
Committee, said visitors will find fresh vegetables and fruits as well as USDA beef and chicken, homemade breads, eggs, goat cheese, breakfast biscuits, flowers and cookies. In addition, the market will feature artisans and musicians. On Saturday, Matthew Ennis will provide music starting at 9 a.m.
“The pavilion has become a favorite place to gather on Saturday mornings in the summer, not just to stock up on fruits and veggies for the week, but also to discover local artisans and hear some great music,” Glenn said.
Special event days have been planned for the season. Those days are:
● Opening Day – June 6
Live music by Matthew Ennis starting at 9 a.m.
● Kids Day at the Market – June 20
Kids will enjoy a variety of activities and relays during the day.
Live music by bluesman, BrothaRic.
● Dulcimer Day – June 27
Live music by Athens Dulcimer Club starting at 9 a.m.
● Patriotic Day at the Market – July 4
Wearing your red, white, and blue just might win you a prize at the Market. Wagon decorating contest and fun family activities to celebration the independence of our nation.
● Tomato Sandwich Day – Aug. 15
