Nelly, the iconic cow of the Nelson Farmers Market, now stands alone at Stoney Creek waiting for the big white tents in Nellysford to return. While the three-season outdoor market has recently ended, shopping for local fresh meat, produce, cheese, jam, baked goods and artisan crafts continues at the 12th annual indoor Winter Market at Rockfish Valley Community Center.
The market’s musical tradition continues to serenade shoppers with The Accidentals, a swing band with tunes from the 1920s, 30s and 40s era, opening this season. This popular band has often played on the market stage with standup bassist Carolyn Stone. The Winter Market premiere featured Anne Kreiger’s vocals, Harry Powell on lead guitar, Mark Greenfield on drums, and Bob Taylor on rhythm guitar. A live musical offering with Rockfish Gap is scheduled for the December 15. Holiday Market.
November’s opening market offered both new and well-known local vendors. Provisions included farm-fresh local organic produce from Double H Farms and Little Hat Creek Farm, as well as Gathered Threads, offering sustainably grown herbs, vegetables and a variety of kimchi. River Oak Farm and Old Orchard Farm provided local meat, poultry and eggs. Delicious fresh baked goods are available from the familiar Mennonite Millers’ Bakery and the new Light Feather Bakes by Annie Jacobs, through her busy kitchen on Adial Road. Cutie Pies brings in a savory assortment from Crozet and Lorraine Bakery comes all the way from the Lynchburg Community Market.
Artists familiar in the market include the craft of Starfire Pottery by Deborah Harkrader and Mountain Vision Pottery by Donna Kincaid, the Winter Market manager. Ocean Inspired Beadery and Chickie Dickie’s fair trade Kazuri beads add to the creative offerings. Lee Albright has created new designs called Knot Art, and Forrest Hobbs, a well-known agricultural educator, creates locally sourced parquet style boards.
The Winter Market has a diverse offering in a cozy environment that supports both the local economy and the non-profit Rockfish Valley Community Center.
After the two market dates in December, mark your calendars for February 2, March 2 and April 6, coinciding with the RVCC’s pancake breakfast. The market will be open at 9 a.m. to noon. More information is available through the market manager at (434) 361-1725.
