By Blake Jackson
The Lincoln University of Missouri Farmers Market continues to draw visitors each Saturday with a mix of locally grown produce, handcrafted products, homemade foods, and live entertainment.
Open from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. through October, the market is held in the Dickinson Research Center parking lot at 1219 Chestnut St. in Jefferson City.
Shoppers can browse a wide variety of offerings from vendors across mid-Missouri, including fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, artisan crafts, specialty foods, and other locally produced items.
Several new businesses have joined the market this year, including Cedar Cove Homestead, Whippoorwill Farmstand, and Larimore Farms, each offering unique products ranging from herbs and infused oils to meats, eggs, soaps, and fresh produce.
One returning vendor, Blossom Farmstand, has expanded its product line since joining the market last year. Owner Tina Harmon began by selling cake pucks before adding bundt cakes, homemade pasta, and pies.
“The pasta started because my better half wanted sourdough, and I wasn’t willing to pay the price for it,” Harmon said. “Then I realized I wasn’t willing to do the work to make the bread. From there, I realized you could make pasta with it — and you can dry pasta!”
Blossom Farmstand now specializes in organic sourdough pasta, including vegan and gluten-free varieties available in creative shapes.
Another popular vendor, Sew Blessed, is celebrating its third summer at the market with handmade quilts, reusable household products, jewelry, and accessories.
“My mom does the quilts and made the pin cushions,” said Tammy Ogden, owner of Sew Blessed. She then pointed to her daughter. “And she makes the earrings and bracelets.”
Special holiday celebrations, National Farmers Market Week activities in August, and a new live music series on most Saturdays provide visitors with even more reasons to enjoy the community-focused market throughout the season.
Photo Credit: getty-images-eric-ferguson
Categories: Missouri, Education, General