Where: Downtown Harrisonburg

My Total Cost: $8.75

Potential Cost: FREE

When: Every Saturday and Tuesday, 8 a.m – 1 p.m

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I rolled up in my 2007 Honda Accord and snagged the first parking spot that I saw. Upon stepping out of my car I was engulfed by the appetizing smell of baked goods as well as the jubilant sound of Smooth Jazz. I strolled toward the vibrant buzz of beautiful souls migrating back and forth down the alleyway of peculiar products. This is my first experience at the Farmers Market.

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The event takes the form of a large hallway, under a canopy, with stalls on each side selling locally grown vegetables, freshly baked goods, potted plants, as well as hand crafted jewelry, wooden sculptures and even distinctive soaps.

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After walking up and down the row once, comparing zucchini prices from stand to stand for the zoodles (Zucchini noodles) I planned to make that night. I stopped in the same place I had began and took a moment to revel in the final numbers of Just Jazzin’, a very talented local Jazz Band. I joined in with the dancing few; an elderly woman whose cane doubled as her dancing partner, and a toddler wearing Crocs who was playing around while his parents were running the compost stand.

Since I had mapped out my points of interest on my first meander, I returned once again, money in hand. This time heading straight for the decorative soap stand; earlier that morning I had realized I did not have any hand soap in my bathroom and Magellan’s Gift Soap looked to be the perfect solution.

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I went down the line one by one to discover their delectable scents and admire their unique designs. My favorite sent was titled Meridian, and also happened to be the only one labeled “Hand soap,” followed by “unless you like it rough!” which I do. It all felt like destiny. It was labeled to smell of lime, grapefruit and cinnamon, which sent a citrusy-sweet sensation dancing through my body.

After treating myself to a new gift which only cost me $5.25, I boogied on over to pick up a classic cinnamon doughnut from the Pure Eats stand for $1. Pure Eats is a restaurant just across from the road the farmers market, and after eating this doughnut I will undoubtedly be visiting soon. Stay tuned for that article.

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My sweet tooth being activated I felt as if I needed to indulge a little more. My senses lead me to the artisan bread stand labeled Staff Of Life Bread Company. After perusing through a few choices and hearing descriptions from the lovely bakers behind the table, I decided on a Mandorlati for only $2.50. A ball of bread, slightly bigger than the size of my fist, sprinkled with cinnamon and speckled with golden raisins. It transcended me to another universe on a warm rainbow. I do not have the words to successfully convey the spectacular adventure my taste buds embarked on with every bite.

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I will be returning to the market this Saturday to once again indulge in this small luxury. I plan to buy at least seven breads total to stock up for the next week, perhaps branching out and trying some new flavors.

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If you haven’t ventured over to the Harrisonburg farmers market I highly suggest you do. Don’t wait three years like I did, that’s three years of missing out on delicious foods and jubilant people.

 

For a full list of vendors and updated hours, visit the website: http://www.harrisonburgfarmersmarket.com/