Finding Fresh

Waverly Farmer’s Market

32nd Street and Waverly

Saturdays 7AM- Noon (weather permitting)

www.32ndstreetmarket.org



I have lived in the Garden State (New Jersey) all of my life. My home state is more famous for its turnpike and in many places it’s putrid smell then its long-standing nickname. Admittedly if you look hard enough and are willing to make a day of it, you can find farms and markets that offer some great produce. When I moved to Baltimore I expected the social problems and high crime rate, but was surprised and pleased to find city life afforded many rewards. The farmer’s markets with their easy access to high quality fresh produce are particularly prized. It was not until this past weekend that I had the pleasure of experiencing the Waverly Farmer’s Market. While I have heard of the other more elaborate markets downtown, here I was able to go completely green. I brought my canvas reusable bag and walked to the market, which is a short distance from my apartment.

As I walked around the market smiling, I watched as children ran around playing while their parents bought fresh goodies for the week. There was a man sitting on the stool playing his guitar for all to enjoy. Unlike other bigger more crowded markets known for their hustle and bustle, Waverly offered a more relaxed and soothing atmosphere. Not once was I overwhelmed or trampled by the crowd, which led me to truly appreciate it’s quaintness and size.

The market had a wide variety and selection of fresh produce and other items as well. There were vendors selling hand-made jewelry, beautiful original pieces of art, flower arrangements, and aromatic organic soaps. There were plenty of food vendors offering everything from Thai, Indian, and even Ethiopian cuisine. Apparently I am not the only one who takes pleasure in fresh made bread. By the time I arrived half of the selection was gone, and there was a long line of people ready to buy what was left. I found the beautiful array of colors, from the vibrant purple eggplants to the dark rich greens of the herbs and squash stimulating. I wanted to taste it all.

Some people complain about the price of fresh produce, but it is worth every penny. Not only did I find that the prices were considerably less then the Giant Supermarket only a few blocks away, but the quality and freshness make each item much better. We need to support farmers, and by buying organic with no pesticides you do just that.

Venturing to Waverly Farmer’s Market was the perfect way to start my weekend. Where else can you go and have the perfectly ripened melon picked out for you by the person who grew it? I felt a real part of the Baltimore community.