Contributing writer Bonnie Cranmer
Photos by Bonnie Cranmer
Main Street in New Castle has experienced a much-needed upgrade with the completion of the Farmers Market. Behind the row of vendor spaces is a vivid backdrop of the colorful mural depicting scenes of Craig County. The recent holiday market demonstrated the diverse offerings from the local vendors, including food products, handcrafted items and lots of creative gifts for all ages.
The vendors represent many different types of businesses. Black Birch Farm boasts fine Belted Galloway cows and Tunis sheep on the farm. The products at the farmers market are beautiful wool creations, spun right in front of you. The difference in quality and individuality makes for a unique product only available at the Craig County farmers market.
Another vendor attending the holiday shows is Dominique Dooley of Salty Sis Studio. Dooley has holiday flavored and shaped sugar cubes in a gift pack which include flavors like peppermint, gingerbread spice, and vanilla, “great for a festive coffee bar for gatherings,” Dooley shared. She will also have leather keychains, crochet Christmas theme pillows and Christmas chicken ornaments, plus a selection of Christmas jam, hot pepper jelly, and carrot cake jam.
When shopping for holiday gifts, the most unique is usually the most memorable. The best tastes also make the holiday memorable, and Canterbury Handcrafted Creations is at the market with the goods. They have a wide variety of cakes, cookies, breads, and other treats – perfect for holiday parties, and seasonal giving. Lazywoods Homestead brings even more treats with sourdough creations, breads, cinnamon rolls and much more. Getting local flavors to share during the holidays make it truly special.
The farmers market is holding two more holiday shopping events to close out the 2024 season. On Saturdays, Dec. 7 and 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the vendors return with lots of new seasonal and gift items. Bring your appetite and plenty of holiday spirit.
“The first year of our Farmers Market has been a big success, with fantastic local produce, meat, eggs, baked and canned goods, and beautiful artisan creations, from dozens of our best and brightest producers in and around Craig County. The upcoming holiday markets are sure to be a great opportunity to end the year with some of the best options for local holiday shopping,” shared Jason Matyas, a farmer, vendor and member of Craig County Board of Supervisors.
