LURAY—As June’s National Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Month shines a spotlight on fresh produce, farmers markets are welcoming shoppers back for the season.

Whether held in town squares, parking lots or along roadsides, farmers markets draw shoppers in with locally grown fruits and vegetables, meats and handmade goods, while growers connect directly with consumers.

In Page County, a new open-air farmers market is taking root in the heart of downtown Luray, where residents can shop for fresh finds and chat with their local farmers.

“The goal is to help support Page County agriculture,” said Susan Corbett, chair of the Page County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee. “We’re trying to help stimulate farming, encourage small farmers and have a place for their products to go.”

Recognizing the area lacked a consistent open-air market, Corbett and the committee’s five volunteers launched the effort to provide farmers with a steady sales outlet and encourage more local production. Across Virginia, several county Farm Bureaus sponsor and support their local farmers markets—promoting area agriculture and connecting consumers with nearby producers.

As the market gets underway each Saturday, shoppers can expect offerings ranging from fresh leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and squash to local meats, fresh eggs, wine, breads and baked goods. Vendors also will offer value-added products like pickles, jams, handmade soaps and salves.

Beyond benefiting residents, farmers markets also offer opportunities to expand farmers’ reach beyond the community.

“A lot of people come to Luray for the caverns and cabins,” Corbett said. “And many will come into town for breakfast or to shop. People love to take home local products.”

In Goochland County, over 600 shoppers attended Goochland County Farmers Market’s opening Tuesday evening. Sponsored by Goochland County Farm Bureau, the market hosts around 25 to 30 farmers, artisans and crafters each week.

“It was a huge turnout, and many of our vendors sold out of products,” said Angelia Miller, assistant director of Goochland County Parks & Recreation. She noted the county recently conducted a survey among residents to explore area parks and recreational needs, and the number one answer was a farmers market.

“It’s rewarding to see the community show up for something they explicitly asked for and value,” she commented.

In addition to an expanded “variety of local products,” live music and a “kids’ zone,” the market helps expand food access by accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Many farmers markets also participate in Virginia Fresh Match, a program that matches the value of SNAP dollars spent at participating farmers markets and grocery stores, doubling the amount recipients can spend on fresh fruits and vegetables.

To find a farmers market near you, visit vdacs.virginia.gov/vagrown or vafma.org/virginia-markets.

Media: Contact Corbett at 803-609-6343 or Miller at 804-556-5854.