By Rebecca Riddell
Summer is quickly coming to an end—and sadly, as a result of COVID-19, many of our area’s favorite festivals and events were either canceled or postponed.
In particular, beloved monthly farmers markets in both the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula were forced to adopt shortened seasons and to enforce strict social distancing guidelines for its vendors and patrons.
Luckily for us, our farmers markets have proven resilient, bouncing back to provide the best season possible for their customers and supporters. While the end of the market season is looming, there are still a few opportunities to get out and support your local farmers, artisans, and organizations.
In Northumberland County on the Northern Neck, a monthly market is held in the heart of Heathsville at the historic Rice’s Hotel/Hughlett’s Tavern. A normal season for the Heathsville market begins in April and runs through October. Each market has a fun theme, such as “Kids Day” or “Living History Day”
Market-goers can choose from a variety of edible goodies such as fresh produce from Garner’s produce market, or fresh eggs, cheeses, meats, and baked goods from farms and families in the area. In addition, shoppers can pick up handmade goods such as soaps, jewelry, and artworks of all sorts.
Visitors can also step inside to the tavern’s café and enjoy fresh-made donuts, quiches, soups, sandwiches and breads. After enjoying a delicious bite, shoppers can explore the wares of the various guilds that meet and create works at the tavern year-round. There’s a little something for everyone!
The next Heathsville farmers market is coming up on Saturday, October 17 and will feature pumpkin decorating and a Blessing of the Animals. The market will run from 9 am to 1 pm.
The town of Irvington in Lancaster County also offers a monthly market for shoppers to enjoy. The market, which is held in the Irvington Commons at 98 King Carter Drive, has consistently been voted as the “Best Farmers Market on Virginia’s East Coast” by Virginia Living Magazine.
Some of the offerings of the market include traditional produce items, homemade breads and baked goods, artisanal cheeses, local honey, meat, and seafood. Handcrafted goods such as glasswares, furniture, baskets, and jewelry are just a few of the splendors that await.
The Irvington Market also offers a variety of dining options with numerous food truck offering soups, breakfast items, barbecue and much more. Plenty of space is available to sit and relax while listening to local musicians and enjoying the atmosphere. A playground is available for children to play and enjoy, and pets are welcome as well.
Stop in to the steamboat museum and learn about the rich history of our area, or take a walk around the block to explore local shops and eateries. No matter your age or interests, you are sure to find something to enjoy in Irvington.
The next Irvington farmers market will be held on October 3 from 9 am to 1 pm. They will hold the last market of the year on November 7.
Across the Rappahannock River in historic downtown Tappahannock, around the intersection of Prince and Cross streets, another monthly market is held.
At the Tappahannock farmers market, you will be able to purchase and enjoy your favorite seasonal produce from many local farmers and growers. Local artisans display their beautiful and unique creations. Shoppers cans stop by and see woodworking creations by Mac Craft Wood or pick up a custom sign from the Thomas Art and Sign booth and there’s much more to explore such as handmade jewelry, fresh cut flowers, custom apparel etc.
The market typically offers a variety of dining options, with various food trucks and vendors offering specialty items as well as classic favorites.
Bring your comfy shoes and a handy shopping tote, and walk the streets to see all that the Tappahannock market has to offer. There are two more market days scheduled for this year on October 17 and November 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Over in Mathews County, visitors can take their pick of dates as the market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m from April to October. Take a walk down Court Street to the Historic Courthouse green to explore the many offerings from artisans and vendors.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade breads and baked goods, eggs and meats are just a few of the edible delights that can be picked up at the market. Market-goers can also enjoy a plethora of handmade crafts such as clothing, jewelry, handmade ceramics, soaps, yarns, and much more.
The market offers a relaxed atmosphere for individuals of all ages and even their furry friends. Guests are encouraged to explore the various shops in eateries nearby as well.
Though time is running out, there is still much fun and shopping to be had at any of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula’s farmers markets. Shopping at your local farmers market is not only good for you, but is also a great way to support your friends, neighbors, and local entrepreneurs. Grab a few reusable shopping totes and get ready to pick up some of your favorite goodies—and maybe some fun extras for the fall season.
