Farm Fresh: Exploring local farmers markets

Even though the school year has begun and summer break has ended, we can still enjoy the last month of summer before fall brings colder weather. If you are looking for something to do on the weekend that will allow you to enjoy the warmth and get out in the sun, there are two amazing farmers markets right here in Lincoln.

           The biggest farmers market takes place in the Haymarket District of downtown Lincoln. Every Saturday morning, several blocks are marked off to allow numerous local businesses to set up their stands. This is a great opportunity to find local produce to stock your fridge or fresh flowers to add to your room. I highly recommend going hungry, as there are also several food vendors and bakeries. Personally, I never leave without getting a homemade breakfast burrito. But if you are in the mood for something else, you can find egg rolls, hand-crafted pastries, popcorn, tacos and more. For my fellow coffee lovers, the local nitro cold brew from Broken Rail Beverage Company is a booth you must stop at. You can try their draft lattes or, if you’re like me, take some home to help you survive the next school week. Whether you grab something to eat or not, walking through all the booths is a fun experience. It does get pretty busy, especially on game days, so plan to spend a bit of time looking for a parking spot.

If you don’t feel like driving, there’s another farmers market right in Union’s backyard. The College View Church hosts one in their parking lot every Sunday as well. This one is a bit smaller than the one in the Haymarket, but it features some of the same booths. There are less food options, but plenty of produce and handcrafted goods. If handmade candles, soaps or home décor interest you, then this would be a great Sunday morning activity. As a bonus, Goldenrod Pastries and The Mill are right across the street.

I highly recommend checking out both farmers markets to support local vendors. These two only run through the end of October, so take advantage of them while you can! The Haymarket Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and the Sunday Farmers Market at College View is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Grab some friends and go support local businesses! 

Kelina Rodgers is

senior business administration

from Apopka, Florida.