Organic Farmers’ Market Opens June 26

Assorted greens and early herbs, berries, breads, tarts, flowers, and lots of other surprises are in store for shoppers starting Tuesday, June 26, at the Sandy Hook Organic Farmers’ Market. The Sandy Hook Organic Farmers’ Market is held each Tuesday, from 2 to 6 pm, through August 28 this year, and from 9 am to 1 pm, September 4 through October 9, behind St John’s Episcopal Church on Washington Avenue, near the intersection of Routes 34 and 6 in Sandy Hook Center.

Among those organic merchants kicking off the summer event is Liz Gilbert of Gilbert’s Gourmet Goodies. Her all natural, wheat-free, gluten-free, nut-free delights including coffee cakes, banana bread, fruit tarts, and her 2007 Connecticut Fancy Food Association award-winning cookies will be available for sampling and purchase. Shoppers will also be able to buy Gilbert’s Gourmet Goodies cookie dough this year, so that more of the treats can be prepared at home.

Shortts Farm & Garden in Sandy Hook will also be in attendance for opening day. Lettuce, swiss chard, basil, scallions, and arugula, all organically grown, will be available at the Shortts Farm & Garden stall. A variety of plants, flowers, and annuals will also be available from Shortts, with more to come each week, according to owner Sue Shortts.

Other vendors include Windy Hill Farm, Waldingfield Farm, Stoneledge Hollow Farm, Bee Kissed Farm, Bittersweet Ridge Farm, Starberry Farm, On The Rocks Farm, and Maimes Kitchen. Lectures and demonstrations for adults, music, and weekly entertainment for children is often featured each week at the market. The vendors accept WIC coupons and food stamps. For more information call 270-1820, or 313-9908 on market days.