One of the area's most celebrated institutions, the Athens Farmers
Market, will mark its 40th year this June. The first market, held on
a summer day in 1972, drew participation from three producers; on the
following week, there were five. That summer, market participation
peaked at a dozen vendors, mostly vegetable producers. Today the
market has blossomed into 'one of the nation's best markets' according
to Audubon magazine. What began as a handful of farmers selling their
produce is now a community event showcasing farmers, orchardists,
specialty food producers, bakers, horticulturalists, cheesemakers and
many other food-based entrepreneurs.
