After the Trolley running its first lap, the best Bethany harbinger of the summer to come is the opening of the Bethany Beach Farmers’ Market. The Market opened June 4 under cloudy skies and a March-like blustery wind, but by the end, nothing but brilliant blue dotted by white puffs of marshmallow clouds. An auspicious beginning indeed!
Bennett Orchards’ blueberries are ahead of schedule this year, and there was a bounty on hand, with no one turned away – also, none left at the stroke of twelve. Excellent planning, Henry!!
We had a stunning array of local produce for so early in the season. Between Ficner’s; Wimbrow Farms; 302 Aquaponics; and Herbs, Spice, and Everything Nice the product selection was amazing. From spring onions, potatoes, kale, and lettuces to cukes, squash, snap peas and some early tomatoes to boot! – healthy eating becomes fun again!
All of your favorites are back this year, including our breads and sweets to die for, from Old World Breads and Honey Bee Lake Apiary. According to “someone” at Old World Breads “Hell’s a Poppin’” – eat more carbs – they make you smile!
Yes, your favorite flower lady, Dawn, of River Cottage is back with her signature touch on every arrangement. Lavender Fields returns with their always picture-perfect products. Don’t forget to visit Lavender Fields soon, as they are probably in full bloom!
An old trusty favorite, Davidson’s Exotic Mushrooms, is back in full force in spite of the loss this year of patriarch, Dale. We will miss his warmth and easy humor! Fear not, their stand is in good hands with granddaughters, Jenna and Rose. They are not only cute and fun, they know their mushrooms – ask them anything – they are always happy to help!
A fast favorite, our sophomore vendor, Story Hill Farm is back. No slump here – they have more product than ever! Even better, they have introduced on-site cooking and sampling – today breakfast sausage, which not surprisingly sold out! Wonder what Steve has in mind for next Sunday? Only one way to find out – I suspect we won’t be disappointed!
Most Exciting!! We would like to introduce two new vendors this year – Jackie Blues and Shuck It Oysters & Clams. Jackie has a pristine operation in nearby Stockton, Maryland, where she, and select staff, hand pick and clean crabs, caught by her husband, Corey, who is a 5th generation waterman – what a legacy!!
Destinee and Sam Thorpe of Shuck It Oysters & Clams, live locally, and have an oyster farm in Rehoboth Bay. The constant, massive flushing of the Atlantic through the tumultuous Indian River Inlet makes these oysters beautifully clean and briny! Do not hesitate to ask – Sam will gladly shuck a sample for you, on the spot!!
Bethany always brings the loveliest of crowds – faces familiar and faces new. We love seeing you all, and appreciate your trust in, and patronage of the Bethany Farmers’ Market! Join us next Sunday!
Garfield and Pennsylvania Avenue
8am to Noon