Farmers Market Ends on a Spooky Note

For Lortonians, the last day of October marked the final farmers market of the season. Blue skies and mild temperatures made it a well attended market, which was held, as always, at the VRE parking lot by Lorton Station. Fresh produce was readily available, along with special Halloween treats for the youngsters.

The last farmers market had plenty of deals on produce. Many items were half off, and others were priced to move. Also popular this day were many fall favorites such as pumpkins and squash. But this market was a little different than usual, as many market goers were dressed for the occasion in Halloween costumes.

The Lorton farmers market was started two years ago, and the end of this year's market is bittersweet. Many vendors celebrated the success of the year, but some shoppers are sad to see it go, as one in particular has made shopping here on Sundays a routine. "I have been coming here almost every week to get fresh produce and eggs," said Cheryl Stepp, who travels from Arlington to visit family on Sundays.

Sue Wolinsky is the market master who has worked along with the South County Chamber of Commerce and other local organizations to make the Lorton Farmers Market a reality. According to Mary West, Owner of Mt. Olympus Farm, "Sue Wolinsky has done a great job with this market." 

West also is grateful for the patronage from local shoppers over the past two years. "Just remember, we're there rain or shine and need your support all season in order to keep coming and bringing fresh, quality produce... for us, farming is a way of life not just a job," said West.

Patty Repko from Patty Bakes said that folks will now have to travel to different places to get their goods. She can be found at the Espre De Noel at George Town Visitation on November 5 and 6 and The Metropolitan Cooking and Entertaining Show on November 13 & 14 at the Washington Convention Center.

But if you love the atmosphere of the traditional farmers market, you still have a few opportunities if you are willing to drive. There are a couple Fairfax County Farmers markets that run a bit later in the season including Mt. Vernon Market which runs until November 23rd (Tuesdays), and Burke which runs until November 20th (Saturdays). For those willing to go into Washington DC, the Dupont Circle Farmers market runs year round on Sundays.

Although the Lorton Farmers Market is officially over for 2010, hundreds of people were able to purchase fresh produce and baked goods from local farmers from May to October. All vendors who participated this year were required to be within 125 miles of Fairfax County in order to set up a booth. Although many of us will miss the easy access to fresh produce over the winter, the good news is that the Lorton Farmers Market will be back next year, anticipated to open May.