The Largest Watermelon Contest was held Thursday at the State Farmers Market, with the winning watermelon weighing in at 180. Fortunately, there are plenty of light-weight watermelons to find at the state-operated farmers markets in Asheville, Charlotte, Colfax or Raleigh this weekend. And, they should be easier to get into your car. You’ll also find peaches, corn, tomatoes and other fresh produce, meats, cheeses and specialty products. See what else is available at your regional farmers market:
WNC Farmers Market, Asheville – The WNC Farmers Market has peaches, tomatoes, watermelons, cucumbers, peppers, squash and eggplants available. The early variety of apples are arriving from local farms, along with cabbage and a few blackberries. The retail buildings are full of fresh produce, jams, jellies, honey, handmade crafts, local cheese, wines, homemade fudge, fresh eggs and more. The Garden Center has a good selection of beautiful flowering plants and hanging baskets. Homemade ice cream is also being served at the deli, and don’t forget to stop by our award-winning Moose Café serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, Charlotte – The Charlotte market has an abundance of fresh berries and fresh fruit such as cantaloupe, peaches, plums and watermelon. There is also a good supply of locally grown vegetables like beans, cabbage, carrots, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, peas, garlic, peppers, leafy greens, okra, onions, sweet potatoes, squash, tomatoes, white potatoes and zucchini. Visitors also can find fresh herbs, honey, fish, various meats, eggs, nursery plants, baked goods and handmade crafts.
Special Event: The Got to Be NC Big Cart will be at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market on Friday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market, Colfax – Watermelon Day is Friday, and there will be plenty of melons for sample and purchase. Also look for N.C. apples, plenty of sweet corn, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers and peppers. If you’re looking for fresh N.C. seafood, you can also get it at the market this weekend.
Special Event: Watermelon Day is Friday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join the N.C. Watermelon Queen and other visitors as the market celebrates the season with free watermelon slices, recipes and more. Also, stop by the market on Saturday for the General Greene Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America’s Fabulous 40th Annual Car Show.
State Farmers Market, Raleigh – Melons, peaches, corn and tomatoes are in big supply this week, but the market is also seeing early varieties of apples. Visitors can also find beans, blueberries, cantaloupes, cucumbers, eggplant, kale, onions, a variety of peppers, honey, milk, eggs, meats and cheeses and local wines. The Market Shoppes is full of specialty products like baked goods, jams and jellies and salsas.