Fresh is best

Published 10:40 pm Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Continuing with its theme “High Five a Farmer,” the seventh season of the Downtown Dalton Saturday Market is underway, bringing a fresh crop of locally grown produce, arts and crafts, and community activities to downtown.

The market, sponsored by the Downtown Dalton Development Authority, brings area farmers and food vendors to sell their fresh wares every Saturday from now through August. Times are from 8 a.m. to noon at Dalton Green, next to the Whitfield County courthouse.

But this market is more than just fresh-picked, locally grown food. It also features locally grown plants, local art, photography, handmade clothing, knitted items, homemade soaps, upcycling (items made from recycled materials) and jewelry, according to the DDDA website.

Not to be outdone, Varnell is continuing its outdoor market. Beginning June 3, the Varnell market will be open three days a week, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the picnic pavilion on Main Street.

Granted, it’s still early May, so a lot of our favorite fruits and vegetables have yet to be harvested — many have just been planted — but early-season produce is available.

Buying produce at these markets not only supports our local growers but also benefits us as consumers — after all, fresh is best.

If past markets have taught us anything, it’s come early for the best selections.