YORKTOWN—Yorktown Market Days will honor the local farmers who work hard to provide home-grown products each week. A full schedule of activities is planned to celebrate National Farmers Market Week from 8 a.m.-noon on Saturday, August 2 and 9, in Historic Yorktown.
The second week in August recognizes the vital impact farmers markets play in the nation’s food system—by preserving farmland through economic viability, promoting sustainability, and supporting healthy communities.
The award-winning Yorktown farmers market features family-owned and operated farms selling their bounty at Riverwalk Landing on Saturdays during the summer. Shoppers are sure to find their regular favorites, as well as new varieties of fruits, vegetables and pasture-raised meats, reported public affairs manager Kelli Tatum.
More than 50 local vendors will set up their tables along the beautiful York River on August 2 and 9. Families can participate in the “Guess that Produce” game and pick up free “I Love Farmers Markets” temporary tattoos and coloring sheets for the kids. On August 2, the York/Poquoson Master Gardeners will conduct a live earthworm activity and Yorktown Feed and Seed will lead a children’s craft.
At 10 a.m. on August 9, The Fifes and Drums of York Town will perform, and at 11 a.m., Chef Anthony of Riverwalk Restaurant will demonstrate how to make a Salt Cod and Shrimp Fritter with Green Garlic Sauce. Local musicians Louis Vangieri (August 2) and Ritchie Beard (August 9) will also provide entertainment from 9 a.m.-noon on the Riverwalk Landing Stage.
Yorktown Market Days is a one-stop shop for seasonal produce; farm meats and seafood; fresh poultry and eggs; artisan bread and made-from-scratch desserts; honey, jams, and sauces; flowers, plants, and herbs; coffee, tea, fresh-pressed juices and wine; local art; and gourmet dog treats.
To ensure everyone has access to fresh, healthy foods, the markets participate in SNAP, a program that offers discounts to low-income families, making farm-fresh food more accessible.
There are still many themed markets to look forward to during the fall and holiday seasons. Mark calendars for the First Responders Market, Fall Festival, Maritime Festival, Victory Market, Paws at the River, Harvest Festival and Mistletoe Market. Dates and details can be found at www.yorktownmarketdays.com.
There is no charge to attend markets and they are held rain or shine. Free parking is available in several designated public parking lots throughout Historic Yorktown and the complimentary, wheelchair-accessible Yorktown Trolley runs from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. with several convenient stops around town.
