Nothing quite says summer like free watermelon. Luckily, that’s exactly what a pair of Mississippi farmers’ markets are offering to visitors this weekend.
On Saturday, the Mississippi Farmers Market in Jackson and the Genuine MS Farmers Market in Brandon are hosting a full day of watermelon-themed festivities to celebrate the beginning of summer in the Jackson metro. Both farmers’ markets are offering free slices of Smith County watermelons to all visitors while supplies last.
“This Saturday at the Mississippi Farmers Market is an extra special occasion because this month marks the 20th anniversary of this market,” Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson said. “I invite everyone to come out to both locations for double the fun and to enjoy fresh Smith County watermelon, provided by Clyde Magee of Mize, and sponsored by Genuine MS.”
Brandon’s “Watermelon Jubilee” farmers market, located at 8190 Rock Way at the Brandon Amphitheater, is offering a mix of shopping and food vendors, starting at 8:00 a.m., including Cooper Farms & Vineyard, DNA BBQ, Red River Trading Company, and more. All vendors will close shop at noon.
Jackson’s “Summer Kickoff: Watermelon Crawl” farmers market, located at 929 High Street at the state fairgrounds, will open at the same time but will remain open an hour longer than Brandon and will similarly offer both food and shopping vendors. Those include Dandelion + Crow, Dutch Creek Goat Farm, Gaienne’s Gulf Seafood, and more. Summertime favorite BLTs will also be available at the Jackson location from the City Limits Café.
“Visiting both locations in one day is a great way to celebrate the start of summer while supporting local farmers and vendors,” Gipson added. “Buying fresh and local foods for your table is a key ingredient to making Mississippi Healthy Again. We invite the public to come out, taste watermelon, shop local, and enjoy the day with us.”
Both markets are operated by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce. For more information on both markets, visit www.msfarmersmarket.com.
