An Akron summer tradition makes its return tomorrow.
The cavalcade of country, fresh-market growers is back downtown delivering just-picked produce to a new location.
This year’s Beacon Journal Countryside Farmers’ Market stands set up at the corner of High and Cedar streets with ample parking and easy access for pedestrians and motorists. Open every Thursday for 12 weeks beginning July 13 and running through September 28, the market grows each year in popularity.
“Farmers’ markets in cities are becoming a national trend,” said Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic. “In fact, we look at them as a fairly reliable indicator of the vitality of our downtown because they’re increasingly popular with young professionals.” Last summer saw more than 10,000 people enjoy the bounty of the weekly market.
Open from 3-6:30 p.m., the Countryside Farmers’ Market is convenient for customers who may want to head home from work with farm-fresh food from the two dozen or so farmers, bakers and artisans.
The Countryside Farmers’ Market is operated by the Cuyahoga Valley Countryside Conservancy, a non-profit organization headquartered in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It is the producer’s only market inside the city of Akron connecting small-scale local farmers and food artisans directly to a broad and diverse public.
The market features fresh, flavorful and healthy vegetables, fruits and animal products from Northeast Ohio. This includes an array of Ohio cheeses, certified organics and grass-fed beef and pork.
Darwin Kelsey, executive director of the Countryside Farmers’ Market in Peninsula sees significant economic benefit from the market. “The environment at the market is relaxed and pleasant; it’s a place to discover and share ways to make good food and eating a pleasure rather than a hurried chore,” he said. “And, Countryside Farmers’ Markets also contribute to Northeast Ohio’s regional economy, keeping local dollars circulating locally, much longer.”
The Cuyahoga Valley Countryside Conservancy also operates a weekly farmers’ market on Riverview Road in Peninsula just south of Route 303 on Saturdays, June – October.
The Downtown farmers’ market is sponsored by the City of Akron, the Akron Beacon Journal, Mustard Seed Market and Café, Summa Health Systems, Downtown Akron Partnership and the University Park Alliance.
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