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Published: July 29, 2009
Amy Condra

The annual opening of Goochland Farmers Market has become a sign that summer is here.

And this summer isn’t yet over, so there is still time to get out into there and dig into all our market has to offer.

In fact, Governor Timothy M. Kaine has designated August 2 – August 8 as Virginia Farmers Market Week, so the experience should be downright celebratory!

Kaine believes that the Commonwealth’s markets, which now number 170, have emerged as vital aspects of our economy.

Supporting our economy while also revitalizing the role of those who grow and sustain our rural culture, is a rare opportunity to blend function and form.

Goochland is fortunate to have a market here that consistently attracts consumers not only from our county, but from outlying areas as well.

And many of these visitors are children, who are attracted to The Goochland Farmers Markets’ Kids Days. On August 29, kids are invited to prove their green or crafty thumbs, and their entrepreneurial skills, as they offer up their wares for sale.

Lisa Dearden, executive director of the Center for Rural Culture, has said that inviting children to sell items they create from sustainable materials teaches them responsibility.

That responsibility should continue to be carried by all who live here, who value the lush landscapes, the traditions and the crafts that are inherent to our community here in Goochland, Virginia.

By investing our time, and our money, into the working farmers and artisans who have chosen to live and work within our county line, we are revitalizing a system that has proven itself viable.

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