Here in Fauquier County, we aim to please, and the Warrenton Farmer’s Market is no different. Since 1975, the market has provided a gathering place where farmers can display the fruits of their labor—literally—along with their meats and vegetables in a family-friendly environment. It’s become a destination of sorts, where families browse booths, taste the food, swap their recipes and chat about anything – even soil preparation. It’s an opportunity for parents and farmer to teach children about farming and about where their food comes from. Friendship, and the trust that comes with it, are built here between the farmers and the community.
“It’s become a destination of sorts, where families browse booths, taste the food, swap their recipes and chat about anything – even soil preparation.”
The first Saturday of each month is Kid’s Day with live music, crafts and extra tastings for the kids! The children are also given the tools they need to start their very own herb garden. Parents come to the market to entertain their children, to have fun with their spouses and friends and to enjoy the fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, honey, pies, cookies, shepherd’s pie, chicken pot pies, soaps, breads, flowers…and more. If there’s a better way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning, I can’t think of it. Our Farmer’s Market offers something for everyone, from that special steak that’s cut just right or that bacon you need for your mother-in-law’s favorite dish. Whatever your reason for coming, you will leave pleased with the experience. You’ll miss it when it closes for the season in November; the good news is that you can still purchase most of your favorite items all year long. Many of the vendors can supply you with their products if you visit them directly.
The Saturday Market located in the 21 Main Street Parking Lot at the corner of Lee St. and 5th St., is open Hours: 8AM-12PM (every Saturday, weather permitting).
The Warrenton Farmer’s Market isn’t the only one in the county, and the others accommodate different schedules. Archwood Green Barns, located in The Plains, is open from 10am-2pm May through December. The Marshall Farmers Market is held every second Friday, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the H&H Auto garage lot at 8382 West Main St. There are also farm stores open year-round that offer fun activities for the family to enjoy – Whiffletree Farm in Warrenton and Messick’s Farm Market located in Bealeton.
For more information, visit the website at: www.warrentonva.gov.
by Alison Lewis
