Farmers markets have an important place in the agricultural and food economy according to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Farmers markets play a key role in developing local and regional food systems that support family farms, and help grow rural economies. They bring communities together, connecting cities with the farms that support them and provide Americans across the country with fresh, healthy food.” He said.

August 3rd through 9, 2014, was declared “National Farmers Market Week” by Secretary Vilsack. Since 2000, The U.S. Department of Agriculture began declaring the first week of August, “National Farmers Market Week.”

Farmers markets across the country offer seasonal produce and other fresh, affordable and healthy products to consumers. For small producers or new businesses, setting up in a local market is a great way to create income and test market new products. Strengthening local food systems is one of the four pillars of the USDA’s commitment to rural economic development and their “Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food Initiative” helps farmers who grow the produce create a personal relationship with their consumers, cultivating customer loyalty.

Currently, there are 8,144 farmers markets listed in USDA’s National Farmers Market Directory and the Fernandina Beach Market Place farmers market is one of them.

Open every Saturday, rain or shine, N. 7th Street in historic, downtown Fernandina is transformed into an open air market welcoming guests with the aromas of baked breads, fresh cut flowers, ripe peaches, savory sauces and more.

Visit nearly 30 vendors on August 23, 2014 and get to know the folks who bring fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, salmon, plants, flowers, dips, jellies, honey, spreads, dog treats, jerky, smoothies and more to the market each week.

Music will be provide by Hambone Stumps. Also joining us Saturday is Matt from Amelia River Cruises. He will be set up to share with you the breathtaking details of these richly historic and professionally narrated sightseeing cruises on the waters of Fernandina Beach and Cumberland Island.

The Market Place farmers market is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Located on N. 7th Street, between Centre and Alachua Streets on Amelia Island, Florida, we invite you to join us where your well-behaved, leashed pets are welcomed, too.

For more information, please like us on facebook, or visit FernandinaBeachMarketPlace.com or call (904) 557-8229.