Celebrate National Farmers Market Week in Milton Aug. 11

Milton Farmers Market will join markets across the country in celebrating National Farmers Market Week at its event from 3 to 6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 11, on the lawn at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. The national week provides the perfect opportunity for Milton market organizers to thank all vendors, volunteers and patrons who contribute to the market's growing success. Free tickets are available at the market tent for a raffle of a special cookbook with recipes to inspire seasonal shopping.

Milton Farmers Market began in 2011 and was named Most Successful Start-up Market of that year by Delaware Department of Agriculture. Starting that first season and continuing today, the market offers a full complement of fresh, local produce and products from 20 vendors to provide wholesome selections for table, fridge and pantry.

Market directors will make community presentations Aug. 11 with donations to two local meal-related organizations: Milton Community Food Pantry and CHEER's Meals on Wheels Milton. Each will receive a check for $500. The market is run solely by volunteers with no paid staff, and its mission is to support valuable community programs such as these. So far, 2017 is proving to be a banner year for the market with record sales and attendance.

According to recent statistics from USDA, farmers markets and farmers stands nationwide account for roughly $2 billion of the $3 billion that Americans spend annually on farm-direct products.

"Farmers markets play a vital role not just in generating real income for farmers, but in forming healthy, prosperous food systems," says Jen Cheek, executive director of the Farmers Market Coalition. "Vendors are teaching customers about agriculture, and sharing recipes and new foods with their neighbors. Markets are making people and communities stronger and healthier."

There's always cold beer and cool live music. This week The Shockley Brothers take the grassy stage at the performance area, right by the Dogfish Head Beer Tent. Shaded seating is available for take-away snacks and beverages.

Friendly dogs on 6-foot leads are always welcome, and free parking is never a problem in the brewery's huge parking lot. For more information, go to www.miltondefarmersmarket.org.