The trend is growing and the pressure is on to purchase locally-grown produce. But it’s a positive pressure. Simply strolling through rows of vendors at a farmer’s market with their freshly-harvested fruits, veggies and herbs makes me feel that I’ve already somehow contributed to my physical health, as well as to the cohesiveness of my community. The colors and aromas inspire a creativity in me to try new recipes using only ingredients purchased from the open air market–with no supplementing from a grocery store list! (Haven’t attempted this yet—but it’s a goal. :))
But more than just the option of purchasing healthier, tastier produce, (and a broad array of baked goods, jams, cheeses, etc), I love the atmosphere and the feel of just celebrating the simple joys in life that are experienced at a Farmer’s Market. Each pocket of Nashville has its own—mine is in Hip Donelson on Friday nights. I feel an admiration for the hard work that got the unprocessed, flavorful food from the earth and onto the folding tables set up in Ace Hardware’s parking lot. I also find myself feeling proud of complete strangers who have turned their love of preparing delicious food into a small business. Their talent and dedication to producing their products allows you to sample a variety of cupcakes, freshly roasted coffee, bacon ketchup (SO good!) and honey from music city bees (all set to the backdrop of live musicians performing for your shopping enjoyment :)).
A couple of months I’ve made it out to Night Market! at the downtown Nashville Farmers’ Market (3rd Friday of each month). I absolutely love the combination of all things that make me happy being under one roof! Live music, a variety of ethnic or classic American dinner options, good drinks at The Picnic Tap, shopping (the Batch store always tempts me to buy new Nashville memorabilia), an international market, and Jeni’s ice cream—I personally couldn’t ask for anything else to be there!
The sights and smells and sounds of the full experience of a Farmer’s Market bring all the senses to life. There is an earthy, tangible feel that makes one appreciate both the created gifts we have been given, and the creativeness we were also given to create.
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