Contestants pose with N.C. Watermelon Queen Alycia McLamb following the largest-watermelon contest at the State Farmers Market.
Robert and Adam Worley of Cerro Gordo walked away with the top prize in the largest-watermelon contest held yesterday during Watermelon Day at the State Farmers Market. The Worleys’ 212-pound melon enjoyed the awe of everyone at the event, and earned the duo $1,000. If you missed the contest, the prize melon will be on display at the State Farmers Market Restaurant starting this week.
In addition, you can still attend the other Watermelon Day celebration this week at the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market. The event, which includes free samples of fresh N.C. watermelon and a visit from the N.C. Watermelon Queen, will be held today from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the market.
Peach lovers have a few more weeks to enjoy fresh local peaches, and Our State magazine has created a great collection of peach recipes for you to try before the season ends. The collection features more than 30 reader-submitted peach recipes and winning recipes from this summer’s peach dessert contest at the State Farmers Market. There’s a recipe for everyone, from traditional peach cobblers and cakes to more adventurous peach pizzas. You can download a free copy of the collection on Our State’s website.
In addition to watermelon and peaches, there is plenty of fresh produce, meats and cheeses available at farmers markets and roadside stands across the state.
The Charlotte Regional Farmers Market expects about 120 vendors this weekend. There will be an abundance of peaches, corn, squash, cucumbers and beans. In addition, there will be a large selection of tomatoes at affordable prices. The State Farmers Market in Raleigh has started receiving muscadine grapes, and farmers also are bringing in some of the first apples of the year to complement the rest of market’s summer-produce offerings.
The state operates farmers markets in Asheville, Colfax, Charlotte, Raleigh and Lumberton. More farmers markets and roadside stands can be found across the state. To find a location near you, go to www.ncfarmfresh.com.