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By: Danielle Kearns It only takes 3 consecutive days in the mid-50s with sunshine for the whole population to declare IT'S SPRING! We are delighted to be able to open up the doors and let the fresh air and Vitamin D wash away our winter blues. We're also excited because warmer weather means it's time for your local farmers' markets to set up shop and supply you with all the summer feels... well, soon enough at least. It's only the first week of April and we're not completely done with snow just yet, evidently. But we are looking ahead and gearing up because it is April and we. are. ready. If you're local to the West Hartford/Hartford area, I certainly hope you've had the chance to stop by the West End Farmers' Market, also affectionately known as WEFM, located right on Farmington Avenue. But if you haven't had the chance, please make the effort. You will not be disappointed. A farmers' market is one of the best ways you can support a local business, but more importantly, a local farmer. I had the opportunity to attend Farm Aid this year at The Meadows and hear their committee (as well as a lot of super famous musicians) speak about the importance of sustainability, property + zoning issues, food culture, climate change, family owned and operated farms, and the general atmosphere around farms in America. Visiting a farmers' market and buying just one bunch of produce can be the difference for that farmer and their livelihood and future. We, as a country, need to make this more of a priority. As a member of the West End of Hartford, I've been going to the WEFM for years. It is so exciting to see it regain new life and popularity with its new fearless leader - Joseph Abad - who took over last Spring. The WEFM is one of those unique experiences that also lends itself to fun and entertainment for all ages. Aside from locally sourced veggies to stock your kitchen, you can grab a quick dinner from one of the local food trucks, get your face painted, maybe treat yourself to a massage, or even learn about composting at home. It's also a wonderful way just to meet other members of your community and keep connected to your city and town. The West End is particularly proud of its history and loves to promote community. (You can read more about the West End Civic Association and all it's doing in the neighborhood here.) But did you know that the WEFM served over 9,000 shoppers just last season? That's a lot of food. And because WEFM cares, they make it a priority to accept EBT/SNAP benefits to allow and incentivize residents to shop for fresh and local market goods. For more information on all of this and more, check out the WEFM website, Facebook, + Instagram. The market is open on Tuesdays at 385 Farmington Avenue:
Not local? Here's a list of all of the Farmers' Markets around the state of CT. This list is from 2018, so do note, there may be even more locations near you this summer. The claypen recently hosted the WEFM's first fundraiser of the season. If you couldn't make it, you can still donate to the WEFM to keep "Connect Grown" alive. For any questions or to volunteer, email manager@wefm.org. Applications for vendors + guidelines can be found at www.WEFM.org. 2019 Special Events Calendar for WEFM:
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