It's hard to believe that it's time again to talk about going to the markets, but here we are. The sun is shining, it's over 70 degrees out, and we have charcoal waiting to be used up.
I've received a few emails about when the markets open, and what to expect at various markets, and I thought I'd answer market related questions all at once, for everyone.
North Market: There are already a few vendors at the North Market, so I suppose it's safe to say they have already begun. Again, it's mostly herbs, greens, and plants at this time. The first major market event will be Cinco d'Ohio, which takes place May 3rd. Cinco d'Ohio is an event which highlights all sort of great Ohio products. And the next day, Sunday May 4th, is the first of a new event at the market: Artisan Sundays. The market will be teaming up with local Ohio craftspeople on the first Sunday of each month. It's a great chance to get out and buy some super cool locally-made items. And, of course, May 17th is the Apron Gala, the Market's annual fundraiser which includes lots of local food, beer and wine.
Worthington Farmer's Market: there is one more Worthington Winter market. The last scheduled market is April 26th. The regular market begins Saturday, May 10th with the Plant Fest. This is early in the season, so usually you might expect to find a lot of greens and herbs, and tons of plants for planting.
Clintonville Farmer's Market: there is a preview of the market on Saturday, May 3rd, where farmers will be bringing plants to start your own garden. There will also be some early Spring veggies. The regular market begins Saturday, May 24th.
Pearl Alley Farmer's Market: there have been some shake ups at the Pearl Alley Market over the past year. I'm not quite sure what is going on, because their website hasn't been updated since 2007, but last year they started June 1st, so let's just say it's they'll maybe begin the first Friday in June. If you know that to be otherwise, please let me know. The Pearl Alley Market is a weekday market - it takes place from 10:30a - 2p on Tuesdays and Fridays. This market includes artisans as well as farmers and food producers.
Westerville Farmer's Market: takes place in downtown Westerville on Wednesday afternoons from 3p - 6p. The first market will take place on Wednesday, May 7th.
The Bexley Farmer's Market: takes place across from Capital University on Saturday mornings beginning at 10am. Again, the website is not updated, but last year in began on July 14, so, let's say a reasonable guess is July 12th? Again, if you know, please let me know.
Again, if you have any additional information, please let me know.
This is a reprint from last year - What's Growing When:
This is, of course, just a guideline, so don't get bitter when it's July 10th and there are no tomatoes yet. For a listing of specific (average) dates, please visit the Pick Your Own Ohio website.
May: Asparagus, Broccoli, Greens, Peas, Radishes, Rhubarb and maybe Strawberries (late)
June: Asparagus, Beans, Broccoli, Cabbage, Carrots, Green Onions, Greens, Lettuce, Peas, Radishes, Rhubarb and Strawberries
July: Beans, Beets, Bell Peppers (late), Blueberries (late), Broccoli, Cabbage, Carrots, Celery (late), Cherries, Cucumbers (late), Eggplant, Grapes, Green Onions, Greens, Lettuce, Onions, Peas, Peaches, Radishes, Raspberries, Squash, Sweet Corn, Tomatoes, Watermelon
August: Apples (late), Beans, Beets, Bell Peppers, Blueberries, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumber, Eggplant, Grapes, Green Onions, Greens, Onions, Lettuce, Peas, Peaches, Pears, Potatoes, Radishes, Squash, Strawberries (second, smaller season), Sweet Corn, Tomatoes, Watermelons
September: Apples, Beans, Beets, Bell Peppers, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cantaloupe, Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Grapes, Green Onions, Greens, Lettuce, Onions, Peas, Peaches, Pears, Plums, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Radishes, Raspberries (second season), Squash, Strawberries (second season), Sweet Corn, Tomatoes, Turnips, Watermelons
October (with most things decreasing rapidly in their availability except greens, which are just getting better): Beets, Bell Peppers, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, Green Onions, Greens, Lettuce, Peas, Pears, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Radishes, Squash, Turnips
