Winter Farmers Market: Amherst

Saturday I made my first trip to the Amherst Winter Market at the Amherst Middle School.  A little late, I know, but it was definitely worth the trip, and I look forward to going back.  Many local farms, bakeries, and artisans were represented at the market, and just about everything and anything was being sold -- from grass-fed beef (King Creek Farm) to popcorn sprouts (Astarte Farm) to rainbow carrots (Winter Moon Farm) to sheepskin (Balky Farm) to shares in CSAs (Simple Gifts Farm) to whimsical animal art (artbug) to fresh baked bread (The Black Sheep) and more (like soap, cheese, eggs...).

The pictures below should give a good feel for the market, though not every table was photographed (note the student art on the walls). 

Yarns and woolens from Balky Farm.

Delicious breads from El Jardin Bakery.

Organic sprouts from Astarte Farm.

Rainbow carrots and an irresistible sales girl from Winter Moon Farm.

More from Winter Moon Farm (beets, radishes, parsnips).

Bags of carrots and potatoes by Atlas Farm.

Whimsical animal art by Chaldea Emerson: artbug.

With a little music (musicians were setting up just as I was leaving), tables where one could sit and eat and visit, fresh local foods, and enthusiastic members of the community, there aren't many better places to spend a wintry Saturday morning.

Debit/credit is now accepted, making purchasing much easier, especially for those who don't tend to carry much cash.

For more information about the Amherst Winter Market, visit: http://www.amherstwintermarket.com/