News

Plenty to do, see and taste at winter farmers markets

Monday, January 23, 2023

(Jan. 23, 2023)Winters in Ocean Pines can be chilly, but Saturday mornings are warm and welcoming at the Ocean Pines Farmers &Artisans Market.

Market Manager David Bean said many make it a habit to bundle up and gather with family and friends at the market each week.

“’Winter market warrior’ is a title the market shares with its shoppers and merchants alike, and the number of those who brave the elements of a winter morning have grown significantly over the years,” Bean said. “We have a steady and growing winter artisan participation that is beginning to match the number of participating green market merchants.”

The marketplace will celebrate its 12th anniversary this year, and the 11th year for the offseason market.

“It's rewarding to see the embrace of the community supporting all those who participate. Our merchants saw the desire for a year-round marketplace, and we are hoping this love for the offseason market will only continue to grow stronger over the coming years,” Bean said.

For Ocean Pines shoppers, the winter marketplace provides a source for locally grown winter crops and other products from area producers.

Story Hill Farm from Frankford, Delaware brings their grass-fed beef, pork and poultry, while Brightman Farm sells fresh eggs by the dozen.

Bean said shoppers visit the winter market to stock up on local ingredients, perfect for cozy cooking like locally grown sweet and crunchy carrots, buttery potatoes, and winter radishes.

This year, customers of produce merchant D. J. David can enjoy locally grown winter varieties of radishes, along with Brussel sprouts and frost-kissed cabbages. Brandon Brady at Stag Run Farm helps fill customers’ salad bowls with artisan lettuces grown at his farm’s greenhouses.

Many treat themselves to handcrafted pastries and baked goods from the market's bakers. John DelVecchio, owner and baker at DelVecchio's Bakery, works through the night to bring fresh baked goods to his Saturday morning customers. His bread selections are popular with his customers, and few can pass on his Danishes, cookies and scones.

“The winter market also features several other bakeries, including those that specialize in gluten free and plant-based baked goods, as well as homestyle baked goods like grandma made,” Bean said.

Other items found at the winter market include spices, honey, jams and jellies, spirits, seafood, and kettle corn.

Bean said the winter merchants also have more time to directly interact with their customers.

“The offseason market gives many shoppers the opportunity to really get to know the merchants, since the merchants have more time to stop and chat during the colder, slower months,” he said.

That’s also true for the many community organizations and groups that participate.

“We are so lucky to have such stellar businesses and organizations that help make our winter market season a success and a joy for the community,” Bean said. “Bundle up and enjoy your market this winter!”

The market will celebrate Valentine's Day with a sweetheart market on Saturday, Feb. 11, featuring special activities and all the necessary ingredients for a special Valentine's dinner.

The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon in White Horse Park. In-season hours return on March 4, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, visit www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/farmers-artisans-market.

News

Plenty to do, see and taste at winter farmers markets

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