Editor’s Note: Around Town is a periodic column that allows readers to get an up-close-and-personal look at activities occurring in Bedford.
For some reason, when I think of “Farmer’s Markets,” I imagine the scene of a noisy, dusty, grassy field out in the country somewhere, with tables full of food and the possibility of seeing a chicken or sheep wandering about nearby. This was my thinking before I visited Bedford’s Farmer’s Market in the square on Saturday. Presented by 5 Points Markets, my satisfying visit to this event made me rethink the previous notions I had.
Beginning its second year, the market will be held every Saturday between now and Oct. 20th. And if I were to pick two adjectives to describe the atmosphere at the event, they would be “relaxed” and “neighborly.” After only a few minutes talking with Five Points creator Erica Bumgarner, who runs the event, you would understand why. It’s difficult to tell whether she is more excited to meet new people, or to provide those people with healthy food alternatives.
Her “booth,” which she says usually contains about two tables full of fruits and vegetables, was located in the grass near the sidewalk on Broadway Avenue, in the cool shade of the trees. Any passersby could easily see the offerings as they walked along. The produce Bumgarner had that day included fresh strawberries, cucumbers, zucchini, kale and Boston lettuce. She said she is careful to obtain food only grown locally or by other Ohio farmers. This means that some days you may find her out in the fields herself, picking the best of those farmers’ crops to bring on Saturday.
My family purchased some of the cucumbers, and also grabbed a bunch of strawberries, while they were still in season. Bumgarner said that as other crops come into season, such as Ohio peaches and blueberries, they would be showing up at the market as well. Along with the produce, there were also a couple of tables offering other kinds of treats. They included Heavenly Homemade Desserts, Frost It! Cupcakery and food from Tommy Fins Bar & Grill in Wickliffe.
I think it’s important to point out that the market is much smaller than the typical summer festivals, so it has an even more intimate feel. Since it happened to be the third Saturday of the month, the Farmer’s Market included with it the Five Points Market, which allows local artisans and other small businesses to offer their products for sale. These included jewelry from Paparazzi, candles from The Garrett Candle Company and all-natural personal health products from Randi Hodge.
Bumgarner, (who I learned is a close relative of pitching great Madison Bumgarner), said her goal for the event is to make the gathering feel like a local market in Europe. With the restful atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and excellent products, I think there are many similarities to enjoy.
