When?
First Saturday in May to Last Saturday in October
Saturdays 7:00-11:00 am, Wednesdays 8:00 am-1:00 pm
Where?
Midtown Shopping Center parking lot on North Lamar (BBB/Snackbar parking lot)
By Rebecca Long
Walking to work, I’ve often diverted my route to veer through the Midtown Farmers’ Market because it’s on my way. I love fresh, local food and I can’t resist stopping in for ‘a minute or two.’ I did a little research and found that in addition to having completed the Mississippi Farmer’s Market Certification Program in 2011, Midtown Farmers’ Market (MTFM) is a growers’ market. I can’t explain it better than their website: “Some markets allow vendors who re-sell vegetables that they have purchased from wholesalers or other third parties. At the Midtown Market, you can always count on buying a Mississippi product from the Mississippian who made it.” It is awesome to know that.
The list of food items vendors are allowed to sell is extensive: produce, plants, meat, milk, eggs, honey, cheese, shelled peas and beans, nuts, condiments, preserves, jellies, jams, baked items, cut firewood, and more. (But there is a “no crafts” stipulation.) Don’t worry: Mississippi and MTFM regulations make sure consumers are safe – foodstuffs must be processed in approved facilities, and MTFM representatives visit vendors’ farms before they’re allowed to sell.
The market is a rewarding shopping experience—browsing for sustenance in the fresh air, knowing your purchases support your community and your health, all while listening to local music. About that: the acts are usually acoustic, and they work for tips and produce, so don’t forget to throw ‘em a bone before you head out—they’re there for the ambience of your patronage. Lastly, but certainly not least, there’s also always High Point coffee for sale to help perk you up if you’re an early-bird.
For updates about vendors and music, check these links, or join the weekly email list:
http://www.mtfarmersmarket.com
http://www.facebook.com/mtmarket
Eat local, y’all!
This article was published in The Local Voice #155 (May 3-19, 2012)…Click here to download the PDF of issue #155.
