Ciderday - Last Markert of the Season

Market Managers’ Reflections:

When we think about what it means to serve as market managers for Thomasville Farmers Market, the first word that comes to mind is gratitude. Each Saturday morning, as booths are filled and tables are set with fresh produce, eggs, honey, baked goods, and handmade treasures, we are reminded of how much this market depends on one very important thing: the support of our shoppers.

Your choice to come to the market each week is more than just a shopping trip. It’s a commitment to local farmers, to small businesses, and to a healthier, more connected community. When you purchase a basket of tomatoes, a jar of honey, or a dozen farm-fresh eggs, you are casting a vote for the kind of world you want to live in — one that values sustainability, craftsmanship, and relationships.

For our farmers and vendors, your support is what keeps their businesses thriving. It’s what allows them to keep planting, harvesting, creating, and showing up week after week with smiles on their faces and goods to share. And for us, as market managers, your presence is the heartbeat of the work we do. It transforms the market from a place of transactions into a place of connection.

What moves us most is the sense of community that shoppers help create. We see friendships formed over produce stands, recipes exchanged between neighbors, and children discovering the joy of a fresh peach or their very first farmers market treasure. These are the small, beautiful moments that make the market feel alive.

So, what does it mean to us to have your support? It means everything. It means the early mornings and behind-the-scenes work are worth it. It means our farmers feel seen and valued. It means Thomasville Farmers Market is not just surviving, but flourishing. Most of all, it means that together, we are building something lasting — a tradition rooted in local goodness and community spirit.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for walking through the market gates, for choosing local, and for making each Saturday so special. You are the reason we do this, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

We look forward to seeing all of you next market season. Until then, stay safe and healthy.

In love and gratitude,

Jordan and Aimee

Thomasville Farmers Market

Biscuits & Bluegrass at the Market

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, fall settles beautifully over Thomasville Farmers Market. This season brings a bounty of produce that warms the kitchen and nourishes the soul. Fresh produce is not only delicious in the moment but also perfect for preserving — whether you prefer canning applesauce, freezing greens for hearty soups, or pickling vegetables to keep a taste of summer on hand during the colder months. Preserving food is a time-honored tradition that lets you extend the harvest and enjoy the market’s goodness all season long.

Fall also brings a special sense of community, and we’re excited to celebrate that with our Biscuits & Bluegrass event this Saturday. Imagine the scent of warm, buttery biscuits drifting through the market while the sound of bluegrass fills the air. Join us for a FREE biscuit with homemade apple butter or pumpkin butter this Saturday! It’s the perfect pairing: farm-fresh food, bluegrass music, and friends and neighbors gathered together. Events like this remind us that a farmers market is more than just a place to shop — it’s a place to connect, share, and celebrate the rhythms of the season.

So whether you’re stocking your pantry, filling your freezer, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, autumn at Thomasville Farmers Market is something special. We invite you to join us, savor the flavors of fall, and make lasting memories with your community.

Enjoy these apple butter and pumpkin butter recipes that we will feature at the market Saturday:

Slow-Cooker Apple Butter

Ingredients:

• 4 cups unsweetened applesauce (or peeled, cored, chopped apples if you want)

• ½–1 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Pinch of salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add applesauce, brown sugar, spices, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, stirring every 2 hours. If using fresh apples, cook until very soft, then puree with an immersion blender.

3. Stir in vanilla if desired. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices.

4. Remove lid and cook on low for 1 more hour to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.

5. Cool and store in jars in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

 Slow-Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, not pumpkin pie filling)

• ½ cup apple juice or apple cider

• ½ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Pinch of salt

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine pumpkin puree, apple juice/cider, brown sugar, spices, and salt in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

2. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally, until thick and spreadable.

3. Stir in vanilla if desired. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices.

4. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Food as Medicine: Nourish Your Body, Heal Your Life

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget one simple truth: the food we eat has the power to heal us — or harm us. At Thomasville Farmers Market, we believe in the philosophy of food as medicine — the idea that what we put on our plates directly impacts our health, energy, and overall well-being.

Every fruit, vegetable, herb, and locally grown product you bring home from the market isn’t just food; it’s fuel. It’s medicine. And it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to improve your health naturally.

Why Food Matters More Than You Think

Your body is designed to thrive when it’s nourished with real, whole foods — not processed ingredients or artificial additives. Fresh produce is packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and plant compounds that help fight inflammation, strengthen your immune system, and protect against chronic illnesses.

Here are just a few examples of nature’s medicine:

• Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collards are rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin K — supporting healthy bones and circulation.

• Berries are full of antioxidants that fight cell damage and boost brain health.

• Garlic and onions naturally reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of heart disease.

• Colorful peppers and carrots are packed with vitamin C and beta-carotene, giving your immune system a powerful boost.

When you choose to eat the rainbow, you’re choosing to feed your body the nutrients it craves to perform at its best.

The Farmers Market Advantage

Shopping local isn’t just good for your community — it’s good for your health. At Thomasville Farmers Market, our farmers harvest their crops at peak ripeness, meaning your produce is fresher, more flavorful, and more nutrient-dense than what you’ll typically find in a grocery store.

Plus, when you shop with us, you know exactly where your food comes from and how it’s grown. That means fewer chemicals, fewer miles traveled, and more love poured into every bite.

Healthy Eating, One Plate at a Time

You don’t have to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start small:

• Add one extra serving of vegetables to your dinner.

• Swap processed snacks for fresh fruit or nuts.

• Try cooking one new healthy recipe each week with local ingredients from the market.

Small, consistent changes lead to lasting results — and the best part is, eating better doesn’t have to feel restrictive. It’s about adding more of the good stuff, not cutting out everything you love.

Join Us at Thomasville Farmers Market

Every time you visit the market, you’re not just shopping — you’re investing in your health and supporting the farmers who make fresh, local food possible. We’re here to help you and your family eat well, feel better, and live healthier.

Come see what’s in season, ask our farmers questions, and explore how real food can transform your life. Your next meal could be your medicine.

The Power of Prevention: Free Health Screenings at Thomasville Farmers Market!

At Thomasville Farmers Market, we’re passionate about nourishing our community — not just with farm-fresh produce, but with resources that help you live healthier, longer lives. That’s why we’re excited to partner with Novant Health this Saturday, August 30th, to bring you FREE health screenings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM! This free screening includes BMI, Blood pressure, Waist Circumference, Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Blood Glucose and A1C.

When it comes to your health, prevention is powerful. Taking small steps now can make a big difference in the future. Early detection allows you to catch potential issues before they become serious, giving you the tools to take control of your well-being.

Think of it like tending a garden: the sooner you spot a weed, the easier it is to pull it out and keep your plants thriving. Your health works the same way — a little attention today can help prevent bigger problems tomorrow.

By combining fresh, local foods from our market with preventive care from Novant Health, we’re giving our community the chance to take an active role in their health journey. It’s all about supporting healthy habits, early detection, and wellness for the whole family.

Come out, shop for fresh produce, meet your local farmers, and take a moment to prioritize your health. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger community — one step, one choice, and one checkup at a time.

To schedule an appointment for your health screening at Thomasville Farmers Market, Novant’s call center is available 24/7 at 844-644-3578. Press 2. You can also visit MyChart - Schedule an Appointment to schedule your screening.

We’ll see you this Saturday at the market! 🌻

Preserving the Harvest: How to Enjoy Market Produce All Winter Long

As the farmers market season winds down and we prepare to say goodbye for a few months, there’s no better time to stock up on fresh, local produce and preserve it for the winter ahead. With just a little planning, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of the market long after the final booth closes.

Why Preserve Now?

The last weeks of the market are abundant with late-summer and early-fall crops—think tomatoes, peppers, squash, potatoes, and more. Buying in bulk not only supports local farmers during the final stretch of the season but also gives you a pantry and freezer full of farm-fresh goodness to carry you through colder days.

Freezing Fresh Produce

Freezing is one of the easiest ways to preserve vegetables and fruits while keeping their nutrients intact. Here are a few simple ideas:

• Tomatoes: Roast and freeze for quick sauces or soups.

• Peppers: Slice and freeze raw for stir-fries and omelets.

• Greens: Blanch kale, spinach, or collards, then freeze in portions.

• Fruit: Freeze berries or apple slices for smoothies, baking, or oatmeal toppings.

Canning for the Pantry

If you love the idea of jars lined up on your shelves, canning is the way to go. With a little effort, you’ll have ready-to-eat meals and condiments all winter long:

• Tomato Sauce & Salsa: Capture summer’s best flavors in jars.

• Pickled Vegetables: Cucumbers, beans, or peppers add crunch and zest.

• Jams & Jellies: Make sweet spreads from apples, berries, or figs.

Drying Herbs

Don’t let fresh herbs go to waste! Drying them is simple and saves you from buying store-bought jars later:

• Tie bunches of basil, oregano, or thyme with string and hang upside down in a cool, dry place.

• Once fully dried, crumble into jars and label for easy use all winter.

Making Jams & Pickles

Preserving can also be creative! Try experimenting with:

• Apple Butter: Sweet, spiced, and perfect on toast.

• Pickled Beets or Carrots: Add color and tang to your winter meals.

• Berry Jam: A spoonful brings back the taste of summer.

Stock Up Before It’s Gone

Now is the perfect time to buy extra produce from the market. Farmers often offer deals on bulk purchases toward the end of the season, so bring a few extra bags and think ahead for winter cooking. Not only will you thank yourself in January when you’re opening a jar of homemade salsa, but your support helps local growers wrap up their season strong.

Preserving the harvest means more than just saving food…it’s about keeping the community spirit and farm-fresh flavors alive year-round. So, before the final market bell rings, grab a little extra, spend a weekend in the kitchen, and enjoy the taste of the farmers market long after the tents and tables are folded away.

To Everything There Is A Season

There’s something special about these last few weeks of summer. The sun feels just a little softer, the breeze a little cooler, and the days carry that slow, golden glow that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

At Thomasville Farmers Market, we’re soaking in every moment and every flavor this season still has to give. Right now, the tables are filled with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and peppers in every color — the tastes that define summertime in our community. But the truth is, this bounty won’t last forever. In just a few short weeks, the summer growing season will come to a close, and the market will wrap up until next year.

That’s what makes seasonal eating so special — it’s here for a moment, and then it’s gone, making every bite worth savoring. These vegetables and fruits aren’t just food; they’re happy memories of sunny mornings, friendly chats with local farmers, and the simple joy of gathering good things from nearby fields.

For us as market managers, these Saturday mornings are the highlight of our spring and summer months — engaging with the community, our vendors, and our shoppers. You are all such a big part of our lives, and we cherish every single interaction. We make new friends every Saturday — from the very young to the very old — and the friendships we make are precious and priceless.

Community is what it’s all about: a shared vision for what we want on our families’ tables, and the connections we make along the way — the hugs, the high-fives, the memories. We genuinely appreciate every person who walks through the market pavilion, and we can’t wait to see you again next year when spring breathes new life into a brand-new market season.

But for now, let us savor these last weeks. It’s a precious time to connect, reflect, and appreciate the goodness our local makers, bakers, and producers bring.

So while the season is still here, come walk the market, fill your baskets, and enjoy the best of summer before it’s just a memory. We’ll be here, ready to share it with you — one more Saturday at a time.

August is National Wellness Month

Celebrate National Wellness Month with Healthy Eating at Thomasville Farmers Market

August is National Wellness Month—a time to focus on self-care, managing stress, and creating healthy routines that support long-term well-being. Here at the Thomasville Farmers Market, we believe that wellness starts with what’s on your plate.

One of the most powerful (and delicious) ways to care for your body is through healthy eating. Whether you're aiming to feel more energized, support your immune system, or just build better habits for your family, choosing fresh, nutrient-rich foods is a step in the right direction.

Why Healthy Eating Matters

Healthy eating isn't just a trend—it’s a cornerstone of wellness. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins has been shown to:

• Boost energy levels

• Improve mental clarity and mood

• Reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers

• Support healthy weight and digestion

• Strengthen immunity

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Only 1 in 10 adults gets enough fruits and vegetables each day.

• Diets high in fruits and vegetables are linked to lower risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

• Inadequate nutrition contributes to over 678,000 deaths each year in the U.S.

That’s a big deal—but it’s also a big opportunity. By making small changes in what we eat, we can make a huge impact on how we feel and how we live.

Eat the Rainbow at the Market

At the Thomasville Farmers Market, we make healthy eating easy—and enjoyable. Our local farmers and food producers offer a colorful variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised meats, eggs, honey, and homemade goods that support your health from the inside out.

Looking for inspiration? Try:

• A rainbow salad with local tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and fresh herbs

• Grilled zucchini and squash as a light summer side

• Smoothies with market-fresh berries and local greens

• Farm-fresh eggs and whole grain toast for a nutrient-packed breakfast

Shopping local not only supports your health—it strengthens our community and uplifts local small farms and businesses.

Make This Month Matter

This August, celebrate National Wellness Month by fueling your body with real, wholesome food. Stop by the Thomasville Farmers Market to find everything you need to start (or continue!) your wellness journey—one fresh bite at a time.

We’re here every week with fresh produce, friendly faces, and a passion for growing health and happiness in our community.

what does wellness mean to you?

At last weekend’s market, we polled several shoppers and vendors with the question “What does wellness mean to you?” Here are some of the responses we received:

• “An ongoing journey to reach a balanced spirit, mind and body”

• “Positive approach to living while caring for your mind”

• “A mind and body healthy enough to support a happy, fulfilled life”

• “Staying in good shape”

• “Being able to get out of the bed in the morning and GO”

• “Having good health”

As National Wellness Month gets underway, take stock of the areas in your life that could use a little extra care—whether it’s the food on your plate, your stress levels, or how much time you spend outdoors. Even small changes, like adding more fresh fruits and veggies to your meals or taking a walk through the market each week, can have a big impact over time.

At the Thomasville Farmers Market, we’re proud to be part of your wellness journey. From farm-fresh produce to the friendly, community-centered atmosphere, we offer more than just groceries—we offer connection, inspiration, and a reminder to slow down and savor the season.

So, what does wellness mean to you? Come explore the market this August and discover how nourishing your body with local, seasonal food can nourish your whole self.

We look forward to seeing you at the market!

Beets, Bravery, and a Handshake

Saturday mornings at the Thomasville Farmers Market are special. There’s just something about the smell of fresh produce, the hum of conversation and the familiar faces that show up rain or shine. But Saturday before last, one small moment stood out in a big way.

I was chatting with a young produce enthusiast about our Eat the Rainbow program. I explained that she could use her Rainbow Bucks to buy fresh produce from our vendors and told her it was a great chance to try something new. She wrinkled her nose.

I admitted I had only eaten a tiny sliver of a pickled beet once and was absolutely sure I didn’t like beets. I told her I understood that it’s hard to try new things, even as a grown-up.

That’s when it happened.

She looked at me quite seriously and said, “I might try them... if you do.”

We locked eyes for a second, then shook hands. A real deal. No turning back. We agreed to give beets a fair shot.

It was such a simple exchange, but it reminded me how powerful encouragement can be, no matter our age. Sometimes, all it takes is a little trust and a tiny handshake to push us out of our comfort zones.

True to my word, I roasted my single beet using instructions from the very farmer who grew it. And I must admit—beets are pretty great. They made me think that if a potato and a carrot had a baby that was slightly undercooked, and was covered with salt, pepper, and sweet cream butter… well, that’s what a roasted beet tastes like.

As for my brave little beet buddy? She came back last Saturday and gave me the full report. With a scrunched-up face, she said very politely: “I didn’t really like beets.” And honestly? That’s okay. She tried something new, and that’s what mattered most. We both tried something new!

Here’s to trying new things, to bravery in small packages, and to our precious community of farmers and marketgoers that make moments like this possible.