Get sweet treats this week at area farmers tailgate markets, and not the kind you think! Sure, there will be Halloween- and fall-inspired cupcakes, pies, and tarts (and even a chance to trick or treat—more later). But the real sweet story is the season’s veggies.
The first freeze, predicted mid-week, will actually make fall favorites like kale, broccoli, parsnips, and carrots sweeter and more flavorful than they’ve been so far! How?
Kale, for example, reacts to cold conditions by producing sugars. And root veggies convert their existing starches to sugar once the cold hits. Don’t worry, the freeze isn’t the end for these veggies. A second frost only intensifies their flavor more, and most will remain at markets through the end of the season.
Of course, sweet fruits—from apples to pears—can be found, too. At Asheville City Market, don’t pass by McConnell Farms’ unnamed heirloom pears. Farmer Danny McConnell shares that the mysterious variety is wonderful baked in a homemade tart. Blue Meadow Farms (West Asheville Tailgate Market, Asheville City Market downtown and South) has been bringing sweet and juicy Sugar Baby watermelons to market. Unfortunately, they’re down to the last melons of the season, so grab them while you can.
Starting your gift hunt? More and more artisan vendors are joining tailgates. The group of arts and crafts vendors at Asheville City Market will reach 10 this Saturday, the most ever for an October date. (November and December dates promise even more.) You can even find handcrafted jewelry made by an 11-year-old: the very talented Jenni Gems! Saturday will also be their final mug promotion. While supplies last, purchase a brand new market mug and receive a free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Asheville City Market runs 8 am until 1 pm.
Next week , on October 25, trick or treat at the Historic Marion Tailgate Market! Trick or treating will run from 3-4 pm with other special fall market activities until 5 pm. On Thursday, the 27th, Black Mountain Tailgate Market will host a benefit tasting event at Pisgah Brewing Company from 4-7 pm. The event will offer tastes of local foods from market farmers, live music, and more. Find information at blackmountaintailgatemarket.org.
Most area markets remain open through the end of the month. Many run through November and into December. Our websites will share closing details and holiday market dates as next month approaches.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
