Fiat Homestead and Frozen Rocks Farm are just two of the many vendors selling their wares at this Saturday’s Oxford Farmers’ Market. (Photos courtesy of the Oxford Farmers’ Market)

OXFORD — The Oxford Farmers’ Market will be highlighting the flavors of summer this Saturday at Lafayette Park from 9:00 a.m. to noon, with music starting at 10:00 a.m. 

There’s something about the way a summer farmers’ market fills us with expectation that is just so special. At a time in our modern history when we can get anything on demand, farmers’ markets teach us the value of patience. While just about everything can be found at a grocery store year-round, here in Chenango County, tomatoes are still ripening on their vines, corn is only waist high in the fields, and most blueberries are just experiencing their first blush of ripeness—oh-so close! But the recent arrivals of squash, cucumbers, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower and beets (and so much more) are all here for us to savor. And each new arrival is well worth the wait, rewarding our patience by allowing us the opportunity to really taste the season as it unfolds. This is what eating locally and supporting your neighbors looks like. And you can’t beat the feeling—or the flavor—of a vegetable picked at its peak of freshness by the hardworking farmer whose hand you can shake right there at the market, all grown organically—and some even certified organic!

Along with all this seasonal amazing produce, shoppers this Saturday will find more than 30 vendors vendors offering plants and mushrooms; chicken, turkey and duck eggs, dairy products and regional cheeses; lamb, pork and chicken raised lovingly right here in our county; fabulous hard ciders, artisan breads, scones and other baked goods; maple syrup and honey; salsas and jams; coffee and tea; hand-made soaps, lotions and balms; and exquisitely hand-crafted pottery, jewelry, sewn items, and willow basketry. All products grown and produced locally by the hands of those selling them. 

An open art table for children is also available on a weekly basis, as well as a community table for enjoying all the delicious prepared foods available at the Market and from the Village’s surrounding restaurants.

Folk Fiddler John Potocnik and pianist Kathy Shimberg will be performing in the Bandstand this week at 10 a.m.

For more information about the Oxford Farmers’ Market, including how SNAP dollars are doubled at the Market, and to sign up for their weekly newsletter, visit their website: www.oxfordfarmersmarket.org

— Information from Oxford Farmers’ Market