Last week I wrote about reaping the rewards of a home garden, and it later occured to me that the would be soon be wrapping up for the year.
Thursday, Sept. 29 is the last day of the market, and I suggest local residents stop by to support the farmers and vendors who have set up shop there throughout the summer.
I went to the farmers market last week eager to pick up some fresh veggies. Rudy Alvarez of Chicago was there on behalf of Jeffery’s Farm selling their usual colorful, plentiful produce.
Alvarez, who has worked for the farm the past 16 years, told me this season was good for pretty much all produce.
Their stand at the farmers market offers everything from herbs to fingerling potatoes, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and more recently, gourds. Alvarez told me that tomatoes, corn and peppers are the most popular picks for Algonquin residents.
Even as the farmers market was coming to a close for the day and Alvarez began packing up, people stopped by to nab some farm-fresh vegetables.
I opted for a red pepper, zucchini, green onions and two decorative gourds. Alvarez told me that the farm would have pumpkins within the next few weeks, as I’m sure other local farms and grocery stores in the area will as well.
If you’ve already visited the Algonquin farmers market this year, check it out again for one last chance to grab some locally grown (and very reasonably-priced) herbs and vegetables. If you haven’t made it to the market at yet, next week is your last chance to visit the friendly vendors this year. Supporting local farms and businesses is a great way to support the local economy and the environment.
To celebrate another successful year, the Algonquin farmers market will conclude with the Old Time Country Harvest Day on Saturday October 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include free kids’ games as well as a pumpkin contest, craft fair and sidewalk costume parade.
Support local farmers and enjoy the fresh produce as summer comes to a close.
