Farmer’s Market a growing success

When springtime rolls around, many of us get a craving for fresh vegetables. We may not want to take the time, or have the knowledge to grow our own, but thankfully, there is the Farmer’s Market in downtown McMinnville.

Tennessee-grown fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods of all kinds and a variety of both budding and ornamental plants can be found at the market. Many canned goods are available and Henry Colwell sells his homemade beef jerky. Colwell is a federally inspected meat processor.

The new market pavilion is located on W. Colville St., and made possible by a joint effort of the USDA, City of McMinnville, Warren County Commissioners and Farmer’s Market Association. The structure is 50 feet x 200 feet providing vendors with a convenient cover from the elements. It also features a concession stand, restrooms and benches.

The market is open on Saturdays beginning in April and continuing through Thanksgiving. Wednesday and Friday market days are added in May. Friday evening hours were added last year to accommodate shoppers.

Many activities are held to involve public participation, such as, the Pumpkin Festival, Watermelon Festival, Corn Boiling and Fried Pie Contest.

Mary Cantrell serves as the market manager and can be reached at 668-4068. Officers include Brent Bain, president; Gloria Whitaker, vice-president and Carolyn Bickford, secretary.