Check out this post about the Winter Farmers’ Market on Ziptivity!
Shape Up Somerville’s Winter Farmer’s Market
Posted by zipmom on January 27, 2011 · Leave a Comment
Written by Tara, Ziptivity’s Metro Boston Community Ambassador
I love winter – the beautiful white blanket of snow, the aroma of wood fireplaces burning outside, and bread baking inside, the lights sparkling at night. During the winter, I get to wear fabulous scarves, adorable hats and hot-mama boots. I do not love summer – it’s hot, humid, buggy, and generally unpleasant. I don’t look good in skimpy summer attire, and I’m not the only one. I don’t enjoy summer activities, like taking the kids to the pool or the beach, where we all get water in our noses and sand in our suits.
However, during these winter months, there is one thing I miss about summer: getting fresh vegetables at the farmers’ market. Shape Up Somerville has come to the rescue with the Winter Farmers’ Market. It is held on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, at the Center for Arts at the Armory. We went last Saturday, and it was a food-lover’s paradise. There were organic vegetables, apples from a local orchard, meats, breads, Mediterranean foods, chocolate candies, and even fresh seafood. And – bonus! – you don’t have to bring cash. To use your credit or debit card at the market, just head for the table to your right when you enter the Performance Hall.
This week at the Winter Farmer’s Market, there will be music by Jake Amerding from 10:30 to 1:00 p.m. on the mezzanine. Check out Maple Syrup Skillshare by Groundwork Somerville in the Gallery to explore how trees are tapped and the sap reduced. Be sure to look for the special guest vendor this week; 3LittleFigs, a JP-based, all-natural baking company, specializing in ethnically and seasonally-inspired treats.
After you have filled your bags, you and your kids will surely want to have a taste of the gastronomic delights you just bought. Head upstairs, where you can sit at the tables, relax, enjoy the music, and feel like a great parent. After all, you have provided your children with fresh, healthy foods while supporting local businesses and doing good for the earth.
Before you leave the Armory, explore the space and pick up schedules for classes and events. The Center for Arts at the Armory houses a number of wonderful arts organizations. Go downstairs to the dance studio. Schedules for yoga, belly dancing, music, and other dance classes are posted on the door. If you’re lucky, you may get to meet David Vilner, a former Joffrey Ballet Dancer and Broadway showman. Through his classes at David’s Center of Performing Arts, he shares his love for dance with students of all ages. He is a super nice guy, and he’s great with the kids. In a recent trial class, my kids learned a lot, had fun, and are asking to go back for more.
If you can’t make it to the Winter Farmers’ Market this weekend, don’t worry. It’s happening every Saturday through March 26th. For driving and MBTA directions to the Armory, visit here. Parking is tricky, especially with all the snow piled up along the streets. Leave the car at home if you can!