Columbus Foodie

Even though none of the (non-winter) farmers markets are “technically” open, there have been farmers showing up to the North Market for at least the past couple of weeks. With one farmer showing up, it wasn’t worth getting up early for, but when I heard there were at least three – I was there.

There’s something almost instantly restorative about going to the farmers markets for me. Since I have such a hard time with winter because of seasonal affective disorder, there are certain rituals that mark the end of winter, and the lifting of depression for me. Grilling out is the first one. Getting my garden ready for planting is another one. But the thing that brings me true happiness, the thing that takes all of the weight of winter off my shoulders, is the official opening of area farmers markets. If you know me, you’ll notice that the end of April is when I finally come out of hiding.

So starting with the first farmers market of the year, it’s a weekly ritual for me to get up at the crack of dawn and out of here super early, usually getting to the farmers markets before they “officially” open for the morning.

Since strawberry season is soon upon us, over the next couple of weeks I’ll feature some local places to get some – a pick your own place not too far from me, Rhoads Farm Market down in Circleville, and a few roadside stands. This summer I hope to feature something I’ll call “Roadside Ohio”, which focuses on local farmers and their own farms and markets, and “Keeping It Local”, a feature that focuses on local independent businesses.

There weren’t too many farmers out this past weekend – I counted three or four total. Brightening the dreary day were the these beautiful spring flowers from Combs Herbs:

Local arugula from Toad Hill will find a welcome place in a few simply dressed salads over the next couple of days:

And chives – got a few ideas in mind for using these.

Maybe in an omelette with some farm fresh eggs?

I also picked up a bag of lettuce mix, because I’ve been quite the salad piggy lately.

There were also potted herbs and tomato seedlings – I haven’t started my herb garden yet, but I picked up some Sun Gold tomato plants since I usually do them in containers that can be brought in during cold nights until we pass our last frost date (May 15th here in Ohio).

Next is the official start of both the North Market and Clintonville, so expect much more variety. Hopefully some local asparagus.

As for farmers markets: here are the official opening dates of the ones I frequent. If you have one you frequent that you’d like me to add to the mix, please comment and I’ll update the post.

North Market Farmers Market: no official date, unofficially already started
Clintonville Farmers Market: May 1st
Uptown Westerville Farmers Market: May 5th
Worthington Farmers Market: May 8th
Pearl Alley Market: May 18th
Dublin Farmers Market: May 19th
Grove City Farmers Market: July 10th

Have you wandered out to the farmers markets yet? What did you get this past weekend?