Mary Alice Reporting – On Wednesday, the Tuscarawas Valley Farmer’s Market will open at the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds, in Dover.

Held weekly throughout October, except for fair week, produce vendors will be set up from 3 to 7pm.

Chairperson Hannah Hartman explains that only local vendors can participate, which is within 50 miles of the Dover/New Philadelphia area, and for this year, they will have returning one and few new sellers.

“An orchard so we’ll have some apples, peaches, and nectarines, and things of that nature, we’ve also got a new microgreens vendor, and we’re welcoming a vendor who’s going to offer cotton candy.”

For the 15th season, Hartman notes that they have expanded their Demo Days, which take place inside the Clover Café at 5pm.

“Kind of expanding that this season to include things that go beyond cooking. On opening day, we’re going to have a butter, yogurt, and cheese making demo, and then throughout the season we’ll have other demonstrations like pickling, fermentation, corn shelling, cooking, baking, and preserving.”

The Tuscarawas Valley Famer’s Market also participates in several programs, such as SNAP, Produce Perks, P-EBT, Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program, and WIC.

“We’re very proud of the fact that we participate in several different programs that assist qualifying individuals with the cost of purchasing fresh produce at the market. Goals of our market is to increase access to fresh produce because it is such an important part to a healthy lifestyle and diet.”

Live music and other special events will be held during the Wednesday market, as well as food trucks each week. For additional details on the Tuscarawas Farmer’s Market or to see an events calendar, visit www.tvffm.org.

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