Farmers Market Begins New Year Saturday

The Clayton Farmers and Community Market is set to begin its third year Saturday, April 2, bringing farm-fresh food and crafts to local residents.

Organizers are expecting at least 15 vendors, offering everything from honey and eggs to vegetables and baked goods.

"We're excited," said Farmers Market Board Member Kathy Tate-Hildreth. "We're looking forward to another good year."

The Tailgaters will provide opening day entertainment from 10 to 11 am, followed by music and dance from DPM Studio.

"It should be fun," she said. 

But this year, local farmers want something more than a few dollars in return -- a pledge from residents to spend 10 percent of their food dollars on locally grown food this year.

"It would mean a lot to local farmers while enhancing the diets of local residents," Tate-Hildreth said.

The "10 Percent Challenge" was a central part of the Market's kick-off event at The Clayton Center March 12 and already many local residents have agreed. Tate-Hildreth said more are expected to take the pledge as the year goes on.

The market offers food and crafts from 29 local vendors, with an average of 17 on-site each Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm during the spring, summer and fall.