Even though the weather’s been a bit warmer and we haven’t had much in the way of that depressing fall rain that we sometimes get, you can totally tell it’s ON ― the calendar registers OCTOBER ALREADY, the leaves are starting to turn, and things at the Market are getting rootier, tuber-er, and, um, squashier.
Yes. If you’re into eating seasonally, then you know that the tide has turned. There are still plenty of tomatoes and peppers to choose from (so many varieties), and fortunately they pair nicely with the squashes, the potatoes, and the various roots, but fall food is firmly in control. Time to fire up those ovens, kids.
The weather this Saturday will be fantastic: cool and sunny and a bit breezy. Wear a light jacket if you go to the Market early. Actually, you might need it all day.
Here’s some of what you’ll find at the Market this week: green beans, rainbow chard, cabbage, fresh herbs, lettuces, salad mix, many varieties of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, early winter squash & pumpkins, apples, eggplant, potatoes, garlic, fresh whole onions, melons, maybe a few peaches, and who knows what else. Of course, there will be a vast array of frozen, farm-raised meat at the Market, as well as eggs, goat cheese, honey, and baked goods. As for prepared foods, Veggie Trails is taking a break this week, but will be back next week. Fryer Tuck will DEFINITELY be in the house this week. Tiny Greens makes wicked, sprouty sandwiches and wraps. The cupcake folks from last week are back and will be located next to Tiny Greens (Row 5, yo). Shop all five rows of the Market this weekend, even if it seems a little sparse, to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Special events this week: The Urbana Free Library is paying the Market its last visit for the season this Saturday. They love reading to kids, signing residents up for library cards, and filling helium balloons, as well as just chatting about Urbana’s most excellent library. Come out and say hello!
Also, Urbana Fire Rescue will be having its annual Parade and Fire Truck Muster in observance of Fire Prevention Week. The parade starts on Philo Road, but will be winding its way to its eventual stopping point on Illinois Street, just south of the Market. Two way traffic on Illinois Street will be permitted, and there will be access to the Market’s parking.
Speaking of, there’s additional parking just south of the Market site (and west of the dry cleaner’s) that’s brand new!
Just a reminder to all users of credit, debit, and LINK cards: the Market now accepts all of these at the City tent. You can bring your card(s) to the tent, located at the Market’s NW entrance, get them swiped for whatever transaction amount you desire (credit and debit purchases carry a $1.00 service charge), and you’ll get tokens that are spendable anywhere within the Market. Pretty dang cool. Of course, cash and checks are gladly accepted by all Market vendors – this is just another payment option.
Two Market policy reminders:
1. Dogs = allowed, just keep them on a short leash, clean up after them, and make sure they’re not scaring anyone with their barking or jumping.
2. Smoking of any kind = NOT ALLOWED inside the Market. Please find the Director if you have questions.
If you need another canvas grocery bag to add to the menagerie, Market totes are available in limited quantities for the low, low price of $8.00. More t-shirts are available ― if MW heard right, there are a few little kids’ sizes! Bigger kids – these shirts will also look totally awesome when you wear them on campus! Anyway, the City is accepting cash and checks only for these items, not their own Market money, which is kind of funny. MW has heard that Common Ground Food Co-op is carrying the bags and shirts at their store right by the Market, so if you get denied at the Market, try the co-op. MW also hears the City is considering shipping these items outside the area for former residents who desperately miss Urbana’s Market. Email Lisa, the Market’s Director, if you’re an out-of-towner who needs some Market merch.
Have a great weekend! Eat well!