Monday, August 20, 2012

Bountiful offerings from an island oasis.


It's no secret I have a fondness for farmer's markets.  I think we all do.
How can you help but come away beaming after spending an hour or two
in a festive, bustling atmosphere, filled with what community is all about?
And to come home with a basketful
of fresh home-grown, organic goodness....pure inspiration for
the ultimate farm-to-table meal!

There's a little gem of a farmer's market that is a bit off the grid,
tucked away in my home-away-from-home in the San Juan Islands (Washington).

This particular market is nestled on San Juan Island,
in the town of Friday Harbor, at the old Brickworks site.



In April, it's a bit spare,


but by no means will you come away empty-handed.


 The market even boasts it's own band (duo?).

 And in summer?

It's an all-out carnival for the senses.









Watch out Kellogg's, you've got nothin' on these pop tarts.



Other treats?  Well, aside from
island-grown flowers, grass-fed meats, cheeses, and
artisan crafts, you'll often find a barber's chair set up 
in the grass if you're needing a trim, 
or a willing masseuse with a chair
ready to work out the week's knots in your shoulders.



This islander had confessed he'd never made lemonade before. 
But he bought the equipment 
(we watched him remove price tags) 
and thought,"how hard can it be?"
We were his first customers.  
He made us Arnold Palmers (lemonade mixed with iced tea),
and they were delicious.

The Market Band is in full-swing in August.

Must give credit for this photo to my friend Tom Murray, 
I liked his tomato picture better than mine.

 The day's delectable rewards.


The outdoor market is open 10am through 1pm every Saturday from mid-April through the third week in October.  The winter market is open twice in November, twice in December, and once a month January through March.  See the market calendar for dates.

www.sjifarmersmarket.com
www.fhbrickworks.com