Look out for “locavores.”
The South Whidbey Farmers Market season gets underway Saturday when the Bavyiew Farmers Market opens for the 2008 season at Bayview Corner.
The opening bell will sound at 10 a.m. to signal the opening of another busy year for the largest outdoor market on South Whidbey.
“Locavores Can Find It At Bayview Farmers Market” — the market’s new slogan — was selected to highlight the emphasis on locally raised farm products, processed items and hand-made crafts.
Market manager Sharon Warwick said this year’s gathering will feature many familiar vendors as well as several new participants.
“We’re excited about the new season and we look forward to being back at Bayview Corner,” she said.
To get shoppers in the mood, marimba groups from the Rubatano Music Studio will play starting at 11 a.m.
This week’s market will feature salad greens and more from local farmers, fresh flowers, baked goods including bread, pies, cookies and bars, chocolates, jewelry, teas, soaps, body products and crafts. Hot food will also be available from several vendors.
As the weather warms, more produce, including Washington berries, will be featured each week. The market is open from
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through Halloween weekend in October. For information, check www.bayviewfarmersmaket.com.
The Bayview market is the
second one to open this spring. A Sunday farmers market is currently being staged at Greenbank Farm through May.
The Tilth market will kick off its season next week.
The South Whidbey Tilth Farmers Market will open again for its 37th season.
The market, which is located at 2812 Thompson Road, just off Highway 525, will be ready for business at 10 a.m. Saturday,
May 3.
The Tilth scarecrow is already dressed in bright new clothes for opening day.
The market will offer the first edible greens of the season and loads of bedding plants for the home garden. Tasty hot food and organic coffee will also be available.
Entertainment will be provided by Zi Jal, a band that performed often during the market last season as Beyond Organic. The group features Elizabeth Lovelace, Eric Witherspoon, James Lux, Ron Rossel and Troels Oxenvad.
Vouchers and certificates will also be available for purchase. Veggie Vouchers may be used to purchase nearly any food or flower for sale at the Tilth Farmers Market and come in books of
10 for $20 each. The gift certificates, available for $3 and $5, may be redeemed for prepared food and craft items. Market hours will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For information about Zi Jal, visit www.zijal.com. For information about vouchers, gift certificates or the Tilth Market, e-mail info@southwhidbeytilth.org.
