BERLIN, Ala. – On Saturday, July 13, attendees gathered at the Berlin Farmers Market for a morning of fun, fresh produce and old tractors, as the market celebrated Sweet Grown Alabama Day. Organized by Sweet Grown Alabama, Inc., the state’s nonprofit agricultural branding program, the day is held annually to promote the agritourism businesses that rely on the support of patrons who visit local farmers markets, produce stands and u-pick operations.
The morning was filled with unique activities, including the North Alabama Agriplex Power of Produce (PoP) program. The program, a standout feature of the event, allowed youngsters to taste a farm-fresh produce item in exchange for five “PoP Bucks,” a currency that can then be used to purchase fresh produce from any of the market stands. The star of the July 13 show was a taste of fresh and juicy watermelon. The market selections were a vibrant mix of locally grown tomatoes, zucchinis, peppers, squashes, beans and peas.
Bounce houses stood near the produce stands, at the ready to host the active children for a moment while parents and caregivers cast votes for People’s Choice of the day’s Antique Tractor Show. Multiple machines showed up for the event that ultimately named first-(Dennis Johnson), second- (Michelle Kilander) and third- (Dustin Spradlin) place winners for the best tractors of the day.
Vendors, resource providers and makers lined the grass field near the market, selling wares of specialty wood items, personalized hats and tumblers, crochet animals, jewelry and more. Attendees were greeted by members of Temple Baptist Church in Fairview, who fed them as they arrived and extended the invitation to all to join their congregation for a Sunday sermon. The Berlin Volunteer Fire Department was also on-hand, inviting children and curious adults to visit the trucks and learn about the various pieces of equipment on board.
The Berlin Farmers Market is located at 50 Mt. Carmel Drive and is open each Saturday through Oct. 26 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
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