4th Annual Maine Farmers’ Market Snapshot Week Starts August 4th

Damariscotta, ME - The Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets is celebrating the fourth annual Maine Farmers’ Market Snapshot Week, August 4-10, to coincide with National Farmers’ Market Week. Markets around the state participate in this week-long celebration by hosting special events, highlighting the unique character of their markets, and giving away special gifts to shoppers.

August represents the beginning of peak harvest season for farms in Maine. Farmers’ markets across the state feed tens of thousands of locals, tourists, seniors, and families, including many households with low-income. “This year’s Snapshot Week is an opportunity for farmers’ market members to celebrate their markets and engage customers in activities and prize giveaways,” says Jimmy DeBiasi, Director of Programs at the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets. “Farmers work so hard all year to get to this point, and the fruits of their labor are on full display at farmers’ markets in August. Snapshot Week helps to capture this moment and encourage more people to enjoy the abundance of food produced by Maine farmers.”

There are farmers’ markets in every part of Maine, offering not just diverse food selections, but diverse programs as well. The Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources supports direct-marketing farmers, and appreciates the many organizations that support them. According to Nancy McBrady, the Bureau Director, “Maine farmers’ markets provide a multitude of benefits, including increasing access to fresh food, stimulating local economies, and providing steady revenue to farmers. They are also important social hubs for communities small and large. The Bureau of Agriculture encourages Mainers to shop their local farmers’ markets and enjoy the harvest bounty this August.”

This year, there will be a statewide photo contest for market shoppers (details are available online: http://www.mainefarmersmarkets.org/snapshot-week-photo-competition/). The contest is a chance for shoppers to post photos of their favorite foods and farmers and share their love for their farmers’ markets. Many markets will be giving away temporary tattoos and stickers, as well as hosting live music, taste-testings, and children’s activities.

The Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets was founded in 1991. Its statewide programs help sustain Maine farms, connect market farmers, strengthen farmers’ markets, and widen access to locally-grown food for all. To find a market near you or to learn more about Snapshot Week, visit mainefarmersmarkets.org.

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is a sponsor of the 2019 Maine Farmers’ Markets Snapshot Week.

For more information contact:

Jimmy DeBiasi
Director of Programs
Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets
director@mffm.org(207) 370 1524