Facebook  Twitter  Google+  Instagram  Pinterest  Flickr  YouTube

Cool Spring Farmers Market – Rain or Shine Tonight

Written on: October 13th, 2011 in Agriculture

The leaves are turning and it’s a great day to get outdoors.  We helped kick off the Sussex Outdoors Summit this morning and we’ll be celebrating the success of Cool Spring Farmers Market in Wilmington this evening.

It may be getting colder, but you can still get fresh fruit and vegetables.  There are plenty of ways to enjoy Delaware agriculture this season – there are a few farmers markets still open; you can visit on-the-farm stands and shops; and for a more hands-on experience you can pick your own pumpkin!

The Delaware Department of Agriculture has put together this great guide with plenty of options.  You can also download Delaware Fresh for Androids or iPhones – it will lead you to the closest farmers market or stand.

Farmers markets can help you live healthier, but they’re also a lot of fun.  Come out today (Thursday, Oct 13, 4pm – 8pm) to celebrate the success of Cool Springs Farmers Market, offered by West End Neighborhood House’s Bright Spot Ventures Program and the Cool Springs Neighborhood Association. It features a selection of Delaware produce from leading farmers’ market producers: Tommy Eliassen and Fifer Orchards Farm and is located in Cool Springs Park at 10th and Jackson Streets in Wilmington.

A variety of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, spreads, and homemade pastas, breads and snacks are available for sampling and purchase while enjoying live musical performances.

In addition to providing the community with healthy alternatives, several farmers have donated portions of their unsold crops for distribution through the emergency food closet and for healthy cooking workshops conducted by the Life Lines program for former foster care youth.

The market is also providing employment opportunities and training for a group of former foster care youth through the Bright Spot Ventures social enterprise. They have been doing a great job setting up and taking down the market every week, as well as selling some of the fruits and vegetables.  A portion of all sales are given to Bright Spot Ventures to support continued vocational training.

*****

For more information on how to enjoy fresh produce and Delaware agricultural activities, check out the Department of Agriculture’s 2011 Agricultural Directory.

Tags: agriculture, Delaware, farmers markets, foster care, fresh vegetables, fruit, Governor Jack Markell, vocational training, Wilmington, youth