FOLEY — Foley’s Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market kicked off Thanksgiving week with special events to feed and serve the South Baldwin community.
On Tuesday, Nov. 25, the market hosted a Special Pre-Thanksgiving Market, giving customers an opportunity to meet with their favorite vendors and pick up holiday essentials, including pies, breads and even turkeys.
Produce vendors had potatoes ready to be mashed and sweet potatoes ready to be candied. Artisans offered gift items to help shoppers start their Christmas lists, and plant vendors provided centerpiece options for anyone making last-minute holiday preparations.
From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., a steady stream of shoppers browsed the many items available at the market. Some visitors picked up special holiday items, while others did their weekly shopping early since the market will be closed Saturday, Nov. 29.
After the market closed to shoppers, the Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market continued its commitment to the community.
From 2 to 3 p.m., market staff and volunteers gave away more than 100 food boxes assembled with items collected during a recent food drive. The boxes included eggs, bread, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, onions, bell peppers, rice and more. All of the items were donated or purchased with funds contributed to the drive, with many donations coming from market vendors.
“Feeding our community is more than just a mission statement,” Market Manager Alescia Forland said. “It’s in our blood. For many of us it’s what we’ve dedicated our lives to – growing or cultivating things to feed our neighbors. Our market and our vendors want to support the community that has unwaveringly supported us for more than ten years. No one should ever go hungry.”
The market will be closed the Saturday after Thanksgiving but will reopen Saturday, Dec. 6, for regular Market Day hours, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Vendors and staff will also begin preparations for the upcoming Christmas Night Market on Thursday, Dec. 11. From 5 to 8 p.m., visitors can enjoy holiday treats from local bakers, shop for unique gifts from artisans, listen to carolers strolling through the facility and visit with Santa.