Culture Bit: Bentonville Farmer's Market

The Bentonville Farmers Market is a wonderful Saturday morning treat.  I was excited to go to the final market day of the season.  The fall foliage was definitely at it's peak this past weekend, and the market was bathed in that beautiful golden light I love so much.

This year the Farmers Market had several programs happening to close out the season.  Several vendors were handing out candy for children (and dogs) who were shopping in costume.  The Market also had a campaign "Leave No Vegetable Behind" which had been featured in the local newspaper the day before.  

This movement challenged community members and local restaurants to buy out the Farmers Market produce and send the Farmers home with an empty truck.  I loved the idea of not just supporting a market but also showing your support for the farmers and reducing produce waste.  (How odd that just after this weekend there was the announcement of 7 billion people now residing on this Earth.)

Customers have been thrilled this past season by the new offerings at market including: fresh local cheese, hand milled soap, wood turned products, a variety of baked goods, dog treats, roasted nuts, and more.

Northwest Arkansas may not be known nationally for its food, but the growing season is long and there was a huge diversity of produce.  A large variety of apples were for sale including the native "Arkansas Black" variety.  There is also a large Asian demographic in the area and one can purchase fresh bok choy as well as spicy peppers throughout most of the season.  I took advantage of the butternut squash sale and am excited to make a soup from my favorite recipe blog.  

The Bentonville Farmers Market is organized and produced by Downtown Bentonville, Inc.  This nonprofit organization works in conjunction with the City of Bentonville, Bentonville Convention & Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, and many other entities to produce public and private community events throughout the year.

The  Market has gone through some huge changes over the past couple years and sales grew 270% over the past four seasons.  This is due largely because of the attention paid to detail by DBI and increased community awareness.    Additionally, the downtown association focuses energy on urban development and renewal work in the area.

For more information or questions about Downtown Bentonville, Inc. and their programs: info@downtownbentonville.org
www.downtownbentonville.org

UPDATE:  Bentonville was ranked one of the "Hottest Travel Destinations of 2012" by Travel & Leisure Magazine, the only place located in the USA of the top 12!