By MARY ROSENTHOL
For Potomac Local News
MANASSAS PARK, Va. — It’s a sunny Friday in early May and delicious smells float through the air in front of the Manassas Park City Hall. Vendors from all over Northern Virginia have gathered for the weekly Farmers Market and the crowds will soon follow.
“This is our second season,” said Manager Sheleta Anderson. “We introduced the market last year on Halloween and it was a success.”
Local growers, butchers, bakers, chefs and crafters gathered to sell their products. Shoppers sample popcorn, Island Punch and even wine among other delicacies. All of the meat and vegetables available at the market are produced in Virginia, so Mango and Pineapple won’t be available, but apples, asparagus and apples are plentiful.
“Next week, we’ll have a catering van run by Chef Lauren Forsythe with meat from Angelica Beef,” Anderson said. “And Whim Pop will be here with frozen fruit pops.”
A couple vendors cater to the younger crowd. Hazel Colson of Expressions Entertainment painted faces at the market, while Dria the Clown made balloon animals.
“I love this idea,” Colson said. “Local growers bringing fresh food to the community: what a wonderful opportunity for everyone.”
The Manassas Park Farmers Market will be open from 3-7 p.m. on Friday afternoons through October.
