Keep finding your favorite vendors, even in winter Our farmers market is year-round The need for fresh, locally-raised produce and prepared foods doesn’t just disappear in winter. And while some of the food that is available in the colder months changes, our commitment to connecting local farmers and producers with this community doesn’t. The Farmers By Liz Bartenstein Market @ St. Stephen’s is year-round. This winter—like last year—we’ve decided to remain outdoors to keep everyone safe. While we’ll switch over to our winter vendors the Saturday after Thanksgiving, we’ll still be in the parking lot. We learned last year, when the pandemic was surging, that people would simply bundle up and do their shopping. Many vendors offer online pre-orders as well as CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture–farm shares), so you can shop quickly and get back into a warm car. Among the blessings of this market are the people. Vendors and customers are part of one another’s weekly routine, and in that rhythm, they become a community. Keeping the market going in winter means that this community continues to thrive—especially during a time of year that can be lonely and challenging for many. We cherish these connections and the ways they enrich our lives. 14
By Anna Jones
lids are compostable!
THINGS TO REMEMBER The Café @ St. Stephen’s is open Saturdays. Fuel up for your shopping trip with a healthy smoothie or breakfast snacks, and/or warm up after your outdoor shopping with freshly brewed coffee, tea, a latté or other hot drink. Our to-go cups and
The market is open 9 a.m. until noon. Fresh produce is available from several vendors, but it’s in great demand. So be sure to arrive early, or better yet, sign up for your favorite vendor’s CSA program. In addition to produce, you’ll find eggs, meats, baked goods and prepared foods. Do you receive the market newsletter? Go to ststephensRVA. org/email to sign up for this free weekly email so you’ll be sure to know when your favorite vendors will be at the market, and to learn about market surprises. Each issue also includes a recipe and a prayer to say at mealtime. We’re also on Facebook and Instagram.
SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT
