Fresh at Five markets return June 3

By Sherry Lucas

Clinton’s Fresh at Five farmers market kicks off its 14th year on Tuesday, June 3, bringing the bounty of summer harvest to the brick streets and, ultimately, Clinton dinner tables.

Fresh at Five markets continue weekly, from 5-7 p.m. every Tuesday, through August 12, at the 300 block of Jefferson Street, in front of City Hall in downtown Clinton.

There, Clintonians will find about fifteen to eighteen vendors offering an enticing variety of locally grown and produced products for the couple hundred shoppers hungry for seasonal bounty and the chance to visit with local growers to find out more about the foods they’re buying.

“In addition to the selection of seasonal vegetables and fruits, customers will find baked items, canned goods, specialty seasonings, honey, grass-fed beef, fresh squeezed lemonade and more,” Main Street Clinton Director Tara Lytal said.

The best thing about the market is the community it brings together, she said.

“Fresh at Five has become a gathering spot.”

It’s grown into so much more than simply a time and place to browse and buy fresh produce.

“So many people in the community tell us that Fresh at Five is their favorite Main Street Clinton event,” Lytal said. “We are privileged to get to watch friends catching up and children playing.  It is a great, family-friendly event for all ages that our community embraces.” And, she means every member of the family, too — family dogs often tag along.

The market has come a long way from its initial outings. Since settling into its Thursday evening slot, the market has thrived, and a vendor count of fewer than a dozen has grown to the current average of close to twenty regulars over the years. Recruitment for more by staff and committee members continues, as they scout for growers and producers with the capacity to attend multiple markets in the area.

For more information about the Fresh at Five markets or to sign up as a vendor, call Main Street Clinton at 601-924-5472.