The Farmers’ Market to return Saturday

After months of construction and dedicated development, the Morgantown Market Place will host its opening Saturday morning.

The Farmers’ Market has found a permanent home on the corner on Spruce and Fayette Street, and will finally hold its inauguration from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

"Since this is a permanent location, visitors coming to town that are not typically around Saturday mornings will now have the chance to see what they may be missing out on," said market manager Lisa Lagana.

The newly designed covered pavilion boasts a weatherproof shelter, which creates a more resilient atmosphere for rainy and unpleasant weather conditions.

The market brings together more than 30 vendors who sell fresh produce, meats, eggs and more to create a fresh and local offering.

"There’s a lot of variety that people miss out on if they only shop at grocery stores," Lagana said. "People who frequent the farmers market know that an apple isn’t just an apple – some are great for cooking and others are great for snacking. Like much of our foods, they all have unique and different characteristics."

All products on sale are grown and distributed within a 50-mile radius, ensuring all purchases are benefiting local farms and families.

With an array of seasonal options, shoppers can find some of the freshest greens, peppers, breads and tomatoes in the Morgantown area.

For those who like to plan their purchases in advance, a seasonal chart is available on the market’s website, www.morgantownfarmers.org.

If you are unsure how to cook your produce, the farmers market website also provides various recipes to kick-start your culinary creativity.

In this way, the market engages its audience, creating a bond between buyer and seller.

"There is also a unique sense of community whenever you go to the farmer’s market," Lagana said. "It’s a great place to hang out where you can spend time with your family and bring your dog."

Main Street Morgantown, a non-profit organization dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown area, has collected donations to accelerate the construction of the market during the last few months. In addition, many area restaurants and businesses – including Madeline’s on High Street, Hotel Morgan and the Golden Finch – heavily support the farmers’ market, while the Richwood Grill is dedicated to buying all of its freshest ingredients locally.

Be sure to check out the opening Saturday morning, and stop by Sept. 22 as well for the grand opening event, which features samples, guest chefs and live music.

With the opening of the Morgantown Market Place, the finest local foods are now just footsteps away.