NATCHEZ — The Downtown Natchez Farmers Market opens its first-ever spring market on Friday morning, bringing fresh and new springtime produce.

Market director Eddie Burkes said seasonal offerings would include fresh strawberries, milk, cheese, beef, pork, baked goods, heirloom tomatoes, fresh vegetables, radishes and greens, among other farm-raised goods.

The spring market, which opens 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday at 400 N. Broadway St., is the first time the farmers market has offered a spring market, and it will be open each weekend of April and May at the same time whenever weather permits.

Burkes said the spring market features goods produced within a radius of Adams County and Concordia Parish, circulating goods and services in the local economy and essentially benefiting local farmers and consumers alike.

He said summer market, which began last year, would be back this summer on North Commerce Street bringing back edible items and also arts, crafts and handmade items.

The summer market introduced more than 30 different vendors, and Burkes said he is hopeful its success would grow.

“The purpose of the farmers market is to create a market for our local farmers,” Burkes said, “allowing our farmers to grow more. It also allows locals to know our farmers … and it keeps money in the community.”

Burkes said farmers who wish to sell their goods in the spring market could email him at eburkes@natchez.ms.us. Participating is free for vendors.

Story by: Sabrina Simms