Graphic courtesy of eastonmainstreet.org

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Although the majority of students wish they could hibernate for the winter, the Easton Farmer’s Market has no time for cold or snow. The Winter Mart blooms from within its winter location at 325 Northampton St. still local, still fresh and still so good.

Held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m, the Winter Mart offers its guests all types of warm and cozy seasonal goodies from a variety of vendors. While some favorites have gone out of season, one can still find vegetables, fruits, dairy products, honeys, syrups and much more indoors. Amidst the merchants and organizations participating in the winter rendition of the Farmer’s Market are Breakaway Farms, Ironstone Creamery, Scholl Orchards, Pickle Liscious and BaD Farm.

In addition to what market-goers may purchase to cook themselves, the Winter Mart provides its visitors with numerous things to eat and drink. For those of us coveting comfort foods during the colder months, Bank Street Creamery, Flour Shop Bakery, Pie in the Sky and Apple Ridge Farm have got all the baked goods and confections to feed a sweet tooth’s appetite. Fourth Street Foodworks and Lakeside Maple can also be found at the Winter Mart selling organic kettle corn and trail mixes as delicious, healthy study snacks. As for thirst-quenchers, Stark Juice and Fieldstone Coffee Roasters have cozy, rejuvenating winter drinks.

Returning for its fourth winter this year, Easton’s Winter Mart is continuing to grow in size and popularity. It also has exciting news to share with its city folk and students;opening in August, the indoor market is to become“The Easton Public Market, which will be a year round, multi-day market,”Market Manager Megan McBridesaid.

By the time students return to College Hill next fall, the Easton Farmer’s Market will be an outdoor and indoor event and a social gathering place for the whole community. While awaiting August, there are a couple of events for students to catch at the Mart this winter season:students may taste the finer things in life at the Chocolate and Wine Pairing on Thursday, February 5, from 7 – 8 p.m. for a tasting price of $25. This charming evening will be accompanied by live jazz – a perfect ensemble to the wine, artisan cheese and delicious chocolate. Featuring several vendors, guests may sway to the music while shopping local art. The Easton Farmer’s Market will also be hosting its second Spud Day on February 28. If chocolate seemed appetizing in February, a mashed potato bar sounds downright scrumptious. Centered on potatoes, McBride said this day will feature salads, quiches and more.From potatoes au gratin and top-your-own spuds to hash or a Mr. Potato Head Contest, this is one stud or spud, of an event that simply can’t be missed.

The Winter Mart will run through April 18, at which date Easton will say goodbye to the cozy indoors and welcome back the outdoor market for another season at Center Square.