Today was the opening day of the Chattanooga Market, one of several farmer’s markets in the area. The Chattanooga Market is the biggest of the local markets, and is open every Sunday from the end of April until roughly a week before Thanksgiving, from 11 am to 4 pm. The Market not only offers fresh local produce, but also local baked goods, homemade soaps, and clothes. Pets are not allowed inside the Market pavilion, but are welcome on the street and patio outside the Market, where you can purchase food from food trucks along with locally made jewelry and art.
If you want to get the best pick of everything, including parking spaces, you will want to arrive early. This is especially true if you’re attending during one of the Market’s festivals or special events, which include “The Beast Feast”- a barbecue festival, a Street Food Festival, and Chattanooga Oktoberfest. Other special events include a Cinco de Mayo celebration on the Sunday closest to Cinco de Mayo. The highlight of Chattanooga’s Cinco de Mayo at the Market is a chihuahua race, which always draws a large crowd.
If you’re from the Chattanooga area, you’re almost guaranteed to see someone you know at the Market. After all, it’s a small town, and you know a lot of people. Fortunately, the Market provides many places to socialize with your friends if you see them, including picnic tables near the food vendors. If you see someone you’re not so fond of, don’t worry. The Market is crowded enough to let you pass by unnoticed.
The Market has something for everyone, from farm-raised meats and eggs to fresh veggies and grilled cheese from food trucks. The Market is a family affair, and you will see strollers and kids on leashes mixed in with the college crowds and the high school hipsters.
If you’re in Chattanooga on a Sunday, or within driving distance, the Market is great to check out. Bring a cooler to store your purchases, because the southern summers get hot and many of your veggies may wilt in transit.
A Southern Celiac 