Ohio County Farmers’ Markets Prepare To Open for the Season | News, Sports, Jobs

Josh Fluharty of Smithfield bags produce for Eda Dragonetti of Wheeling during the Warwood Farmers’ Market in 2019.

WHEELING — Warmer weather brings fresh produce, and farmers markets in Ohio County have announced their plans to open for the summer season.

The Wheeling Farmers Market starts first on Saturday, May 29. The market will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday through October in the parking lot of St. Michaels Catholic Church along National Road in Woodsdale.

The Warwood Farmers Market opening is set for Tuesday, June 1. Shoppers will be welcome from 4-7 p.m. every Tuesday through Sept. 28 at Warwood Garden Park.

The farmers market at The Highlands then kicks off on Thursday, June 3. It will be open from 4-7 p.m. in the Cabela’s parking lot each Thursday through Oct. 1.

Last year — the year of COVID — marked the first season for the farmers market at The Highlands. It is organized by Eric and Brianna Blend of the Blended Homestead farm.

In addition to produce, such items as meats, eggs and honey, as well as dog treats, starter plants, flowers and maple syrup can be found there.

“I can say that 100 percent of the produce sold at The Highlands farmers market last year was grown in Ohio County,” Eric Blend said.

He said they had as many as nine vendors at one time at the market, and are always looking for more. Those wanting to sell items there may contact Blend through The Highland’s Farmers Market Facebook page.

“The vendors aren’t obligated to be there every week,” Blend said. “We realize people have lives, and life happens.”

Last year the farmers markets weren’t permitted to offer samples, or have chef’s demonstrations for attendees.

Blend hopes that can happen this year. He has been speaking with local chef Charlie Schlegel and others about participating.