By Jess Daniel

Salisbury Farmer’s Market

Bread Riot Intern Summer 2016

The Salisbury Farmers’ Market is a gateway to the flavors of Rowan County in the heart of downtown Salisbury — a great place to start when you want to experience summer’s bounty. And they’re a great way to be more environmentally sustainable.

On average, food travels 1,500 miles to land on your kitchen table. The Salisbury Farmers Market practically eliminates that by providing farm fresh local produce to the community at reasonable prices.

Right now is peak season for diversity and abundance. If you’ve been thinking about trying to eat better and lower your environmental impact, right now is the time. If you want fresh, juicy watermelon to share at your summer gatherings, we have it. If you want a ripe, gorgeous tomato we have that, too.

If you are looking for produce for a delicious summer meal, I can guarantee you that it is at the market just waiting to be purchased by you.

Farmer’s markets also give you the opportunity to support a wide variety of local businesses. It may be soap, chicken or watermelons all grown or made in the North Carolina area. By buying local, you can also cut down on the amount of packaging and fossil fuels that are used to help bring food to your kitchen table. Especially if you bring your own bag.

The market is a place for community and fun. We have the Carolina Folkworks Jam session every first Saturday of the month. “Cooking Fresh” demos are held every final Saturday of the month, usually featuring Dr. V Ray and her students.

The market takes place at 270 W. Fisher St. on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8 a.m.-noon and Wednesday evenings from 4-7 p.m. at 112 Depot St., right up the ramp next to New Sarum Brewery.

The market happens no matter what the weather, and we will keep this schedule till the end of the summer. After Aug. 30, we will only have one market a week on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m.-noon at 270 W. Fisher St.

Visit www.salisburyfarmersmarket.com to learn more about the Farmers’ Market; or like them on Facebook at Salisbury/Rowan Farmers’ Market.

New vendors are invited to apply to join the market at http://salisburyfarmersmarket.com/images/Farmers_Market_Vendor_Application_2016.pdf