Sustainable Andover hosts Fourth Annual Mid-Winter Farmers' Market

ANDOVER — In an effort to help support the Buying Fresh and Buying Local movement, Sustainable Andover will be hosting the 4rd Annual Mid-Winter Market on Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hillside Park Barn, 150 Lake Iliff Road, Andover.

The market was created to raise local food awareness by connecting Andover and area residents with small, local farm producers and products. Last year's market was well-attended by the community, helping to support local business and farms. Admission is free.

Hosted by Sustainable Andover, this is an annual tradition including farmers and vendors to create awareness of the local food system and emphasize the importance of local business. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase cheese, meat and poultry, eggs, soap, breads, honey, raw fibers, vinegars, garlic, sauces and salsas, preserves, cider, and more.

“This year’s market will showcase the art and voices of students in Andover Regional School," said Carla Kostelnik, manager of the Andover market. "Market visitors will be able to vote on best of show in the student art display and will be entertained by the Andover Regional Select Chorus. We have a loyal following of vendors that will repeat their presence. We have also added some new, local vendors of jewelry and meats. We welcome all visitors to participate in this friendly community endeavor.”

“Winter farmers' markets can extend a farmer's income beyond the growing season, which also helps strengthen our local economy by keeping our hard earned dollars in the community. By hosting this Mid-Winter market we want to continue to introduce our neighbors to locally sourced farm producers which supports that sense of community and lessens the impact on the environment,” says Eric Olsen, chair of Sustainable Andover.

The market is free for all and is a way to celebrate Andover Township with green vendors, and hands-on environmental activities for children and families including a demonstration of how to generate electricity via pedal power. Dale’s Market will offer hot food, and Savour will offer desserts. To receive updates about the market and for a full list of the vendors, find them on Facebook.