Luke and Son offers a variety of fresh, homemade foods.
Fairfax — Located right in the parking lot of the Fairfax County Government Center, the Government Center Farmers Market is a relatively new and growing market
— one of 11 farmers markets run by Fairfax County. It was first held in this location in 2014, making this year its fourth season.
Three Way Farms has been here since the beginning, Wayne Pierson says. He sees a lot of potential for the market. His stand sells fresh fruits and vegetables from Warsaw, Va.
Fairfax resident Alison Tagg comes by the market with her son about twice a month. “We got some really nice strawberries last week when we were here,” she said. She also recommends the salsa and breads.
The market meets on Thursdays 3-7 p.m. This unusual time frame is part of what separates the market from the typical 8 a.m.-noon markets.
Elizabeth Kennedy of PK’s Kitchen comments on the difference between this farmers market and most others.
“You get the people coming from work,” she said. “With my products it’s actually pretty good. You can get a salad and go home to eat it.” Her stand offers a variety of hummuses, chicken salads, and different vegetable salads.
The market is well-timed for people who wish to pick up fresh produce and homemade goods for dinner on their way home from work. Unlike the majority of farmers markets, people working in the mornings do not need to miss out on the opportunity to shop. Of the 11 markets run by the county, this is one of three that occur in the afternoon and evening.
According to Sally Tomlin, one of several market managers, shoppers at this location can look forward to a variety of different vendors. From the classic stand of fresh fruits and vegetables to Chase Your Tail Bakery’s assortment of dog treats, this farmers market offers a great selection of homemade goods.
“It’s also very convenient to people in the Government Center and a lot of housing close by,” Tomlin said. She also notes that there is plenty of parking.
Shoppers can also look forward to Evenings on the Ellipse, a concert series running in July and August alongside the Farmers Market. Each concert is from 5:30-7 p.m., beginning July 6.
For a full list of vendors, visit Fairfax County’s Farmers Market page at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets/governmentcntr-mrkt.htm
The season began May 4 and will extend until Oct. 26, with a closure on June 8 for Celebrate Fairfax.