
Farmers markets are the ideal destinations to buy local produce since what you're purchasing is typically grown nearby, and by the person you're buying it from. Not only will you be getting fresh, healthy food, but you'll also be supporting local farmers and vendors.
Many farmers markets have branched out to also feature live music and activities like cooking demonstrations to further their appeal. In fact, in addition to being local food destinations, they've also become places for the community to gather.
Check out the following nine places to stock up on local produce in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
24101 Cedar Point Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070
You'll find plenty of fresh, local food and handmade goods at Frostville Farmers' Market, located on the grounds of the Frostville Museum. All foods and goods come from within 75 miles of the market, so you know you're supporting local farmers and makers when you shop there. The market has become a destination for families, with music, children's activities, games, cooking demonstrations, and fun happenings such as a visit from a local farm's alpacas. Visit the market from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through November and then from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. from November through April.
1800 Crocker Rd., Westlake, OH 44145
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Crocker Park Market is in a new location—on the corner of Crocker and Detroit Roads in front of Fidelity Investments—but it still provides the fresh items Northeast Ohio residents love to shop for. You'll find fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and more at the market, open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Sunday from April until mid-December. Local musicians are also sometimes featured.
Going into its 14th year, the Cleveland Clinic farmers market offers goods from over 35 local farmers and producers each week. In addition to buying local food and products, you can listen to live music, watch cooking demonstrations, score free samples, and learn more about your health. Unlike many markets, the Cleveland Clinic market is open during the week rather than on the weekend, with hours from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from June until mid-October.
North Pearl and West Gay Streets, Columbus, OH 43215
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Located in downtown Columbus, Markets at Pearl combines three separate markets under one umbrella. Pearl Market dates back to 1992 and is open every Tuesday and Friday from 10:30-2 p.m. from May 20-October. Visit the market to shop for farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, check out artisanal goods, and get some lunch. Sunlight Market is held every third Sunday until December, drawing visitors downtown to shop from pop-up vendors and enjoy music. Moonlight Market is held every second Saturday from April-October.
Wells Barn parking lot at Franklin Park Conservatory 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
You'll find plenty you'll want to buy at the Franklin Park Conservatory Farmers' Market, including local produce, baked goods, specialty foods, handmade items, and health and beauty products. Each week brings vendors, live music, food trucks, and special giveaways and activities like a free tote bag or the chance to talk with master gardeners.
2925 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204
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Shop for fresh produce, handcrafted goods, gourmet pet treats, baked goods, and more at Westgate Farmers' Market, where everything sold is produced by the vendor. You can enjoy live music while you browse, and food trucks are also onsite if you'd like to grab a meal to enjoy at the market or take home. Visit the market from 9 a.m.-noon on the first and third Saturdays June-October.
4222 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
You'll be able to shop year-round at Northside Farmers Market, which provides items produced within 70 miles. In addition to fresh produce, meats, eggs, and bread, you can shop for items like handmade body products and prepared foods at the market. It's become a place for neighbors to gather and kids to learn how to cook. The market is open from 4-7 p.m. April-November and 4-6 p.m. December to March.
2700 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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You'll find a wide variety of local foods and other items from growers at the Hyde Park Farmers Market, including veggies, fruits, meats, eggs, garden plants, and more. Rare heirloom veggie varieties and heritage breed meats are also sold, and the market's vendors employ regenerative and humane practices. Although the wholesome food is the main attraction, live music helps make the market a popular gathering spot. The market is open Sundays from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. May-October.
6600 Gracely Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45233
You'll find plenty of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and honey to candles and home and garden decor at the Sayler Park Farmer's Market. Live music will entertain you while you shop from producers including Two Amigos Salsa, PAWsome Puppy Treats, Sayler Park Coffee, Hippie Pop Kettle Corn, and more. The market is open 4-7 p.m. every Tuesday June-August.
Which local Ohio farmers' markets do you plan to visit, and what are some of your favorite items to buy?

Summer weather, fantastic food, family fun, and fabulous fireworks can only mean one thing in Northeast Ohio. It's time to celebrate the 4th of July, and, as always, communities across Northeast Ohio will be pulling out all of the stops to celebrate this special day. You're sure to find a great place to celebrate July 4th close to home, and many local events include so much to see that they're spread across multiple days. Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with these eight amazing July 4th events around Northeast Ohio.
Cahoon Memorial Park East – 27134 Lake Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140
The fun starts early in Bay Village, with the Bay Days 2022 Festival kicking off on June 30 and lasting all the way until the big day on July 4. There will be live music from a different band every night at the park gazebo, along with a Classic Car Cruise-In with live DJ, a Vintage Baseball Game featuring two local club teams, and a Children's Bike, Trike & Wagon Parade. Throughout the festival, attendees can also enjoy carnival rides, delicious food from local vendors, and informative booths from community organizations. It's all capped off by the Gala Fireworks Display, which takes place after dark on the 4th of July.
Weiss Field – 33401 Webber Rd., Avon Lake, OH 44102
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The Avon Lake Independence Day Celebration, Concert & Fireworks begins at 5:30 pm on Friday, July 1 and lasts until the fireworks light up the sky late in the evening. In between, you'll enjoy an on-stage Independence Day Celebration, along with live performances from Anne E. Dechant, Seeing Scarlet, and a Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Some of your favorite local food trucks will be there all evening to provide outstanding meals, with Jones Bones BBQ, Off the Griddle, Fired Up Tacos, Cathy's Cle & Kona Ice, and Kountry Krunchins among the food trucks set to appear at the celebration.
Mill Stream Park – 1200 Maple St., Valley City, OH 44280
For a full day of fun on the 4th of July, try a trip to the Valley City 4th of July Parade, Car Show, Music & Fireworks celebration at Mill Stream Park. Begin your day with the 4th of July Parade, which travels down State Route 303, West River, School Street, and Maple Street before ending at Mill Stream Park. Then stick around at the park for the Classic Car Show in the afternoon while enjoying some great concessions for lunch. The evening features a live performance from Soundcheck, followed by a wonderful fireworks display after dusk.
Hoover High School – 525 7th St. NE, North Canton, OH 44720
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Held on the large lawn in front of Hoover High School, the North Canton Community Celebration & Fireworks Display is packed with fun for the whole family. It all starts at 5:30 PM when the food vendors, face painting stations, and children's activities open for the evening. The Scenic Route will be taking the stage a bit later in the evening, playing all of the hits from the past five decades in a free outdoor concert. Of course, you won't want to miss the fireworks display, which takes place shortly after the band leaves the stage.
Bicentennial Park – 115 E. Pioneer Trail, Aurora, OH 44202
Looking for a healthy, fun way to start your July 4th celebrations? The Aurora July 4th Fun Run, Parade, Festival & Fireworks starts early in the morning with a 5k fun run with awards for the top three finishers in every age bracket from kids to seniors. The July 4th Parade starts after the fun run is complete, followed by the Festival & Grand Marshall Celebration, which lasts all afternoon into the evening, and the fireworks display, which kicks off after dusk.
Tuscora Park – 161 Tuscora Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
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One of Northeast Ohio's largest July 4th celebrations takes place in New Philadelphia, where the 45th annual First Town Days Festival, Parade & Fireworks features five days packed with events from morning through evening. Whether you're interested in a Fishing Derby, Frog Jumping Contest, Turtle Races, Wiffleball Tournament, or some more conventional Independence Day fun, you're sure to find it during this festival. Events take place throughout New Philadelphia, with many of the biggest attractions being located at Tuscora Park.
Orr Park – 440 N. Elm St., Orrville, OH 44667
The Orrville Fire in the Sky 4th of July Celebration is part carnival, part softball tournament, and all family fun. The softball tournament is a major attraction, with three days of games at Orr Park to crown a champion. While the tournament is happening, visitors of all ages can enjoy a free carnival featuring food, carnival games, and rides that the kids are sure to love. It all wraps up on the evening of July 3 with one of the biggest fireworks displays in Northeast Ohio.
Lock 3 – 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
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Always one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Akron, the Rib, White & Blue Festival is a four-day event focused on fantastic food and live music. There will be a free concert during every night of the festival at Lock 3 in downtown Akron, with Monica Robbins & The Whiskey Kings, Bruce in the USA, Georgia Players Guild Best of Queen, and Creedence Relived all taking the stage on separate nights. The fireworks in Akron take place after the conclusion of the Rubberducks game on July 4, and Lock 3 offers great views of the display.
Where will you celebrate the red, white, and blue this July?

Did you know that every June 15 is Nature Photography Day? While there's never a bad time to capture the natural beauty of Ohio, this day provides the perfect excuse to explore the scenery of your favorite communities and take some great photos in the process. Whether you're exploring glacial, urban waterfalls in Northeast Ohio, gorgeous gardens around Columbus, or an ancient, world-renowned historic site near Cincinnati, you're sure to capture something special. Start your photography journey with our guide to nine of the best places around Ohio to capture nature for Nature Photography Day.
136 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44017
One of the cool things about Ohio cities is how opportunities for nature photography are seamlessly integrated into urban landscapes. The Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, located a short drive from the heart of Cleveland, is one great example. After the glaciers receded following the last ice age, melting water formed rivers that reshaped the landscape. The Berea Falls were created by water from the Rocky River, carved through the abundant sandstone around Berea. There's so much natural beauty to capture here, with a different look every season.
6947 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
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Also located a short drive from Cleveland is the vast Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which features some of the most spectacular scenery that you'll find anywhere in Ohio. The park is located around the Cuyahoga River, with a mix of forests, rolling meadows, and farmland, all connected with an extensive, well-maintained trail system. Brandywine Falls is one of the most popular natural sites within the park and a perfect destination to seek out for nature photography. There's a viewing deck near the falls that makes it easy to get a great photo, as well as a nearby trail that allows you to capture images from various angles.
123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown, OH 44509
Did you know that Ohio is home to the second-largest metropark in the United States, behind only Central Park in New York City? Mill Creek Park covers more than 2,500 acres, with a diverse selection of attractions located within park borders. There are beautiful gardens, lush wetlands, waterfront scenery, historic structures, and so much more to capture. Spend your day near the historic Lanterman's Mill, the Fellows Riverside Gardens, or the Ford Nature Center. The D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center is the ideal place to start your journey at Mill Creek Park.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
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If you love art just as much as you love nature, then the Topiary Park in Columbus is one destination on our list that you definitely won't want to miss. It's home to one of the world's largest, most impressive topiary gardens, with 80 perfectly maintained life-size topiaries. The topiaries are laid out in a way that recreates a painting from the post-Impressionist era painter Georges Seurat.
75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316
Located less than an hour west of Columbus, you'll find the idyllic, natural setting of Historic Clifton Mill. Home to one of the few working grist mills in Ohio, Historic Clifton Mill is a great destination for blending nature and historical photography. The mill itself is a beautiful structure, which has been preserved to look and work just as it did during its heyday. The natural woodlands, serene creek, and gently flowing waterfalls surrounding the mill provide endless opportunities for capturing the perfect photo.
8701 Laymon Rd., Gambier, OH 43022
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With more than 50 acres of beautifully manicured gardens to explore, Schnormeir Gardens will keep you coming back again and again for nature photography. Many of the gardens here were created in the Chinese and Japanese styles, with abundant water features blending in with natural scenery. There are lakes, waterfalls, streams, woodlands, bridges, and beautiful, exotic plants to discover. Spring and summer are ideal times to visit for photography, with so many of the plants within the gardens in full bloom.
12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140
Part historic landmark, part tribute to an order of knights, Loveland Castle is unlike any other destination on our list. It is, after all, a castle that looks like it was plucked straight from the medieval era and dropped into modern-day Ohio. The castle itself is more than worthy of some dedicated time with the camera, and the natural beauty around Loveland Castle makes this a fun destination for nature photography. While you're there, check out the on-site museum to learn more about how and why a stone castle was built in the 1920s around the corner from Cincinnati.
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Here's another truly unique destination with a history that stretches back thousands of years to a time when Ohio looked very different than it does today. The Serpent Mound was built by the Adena tribe of Native Americans who called the area home thousands of years ago, stretching for 1,300 feet and built in the shape of a serpent. It's the largest effigy mound of its kind in the world and still stands out among the wooded, hilly landscape even after thousands of years. So if you want to capture something unique to Ohio which can't be found anywhere else, this is the perfect place to find it.
1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Cincinnati area is also home to some more conventional locations for nature photography, including some like the Krohn Conservatory, which doesn't even require you to leave the city. Created in 1933, the Krohn Conservatory is home to thousands of plants from around the world, with different "houses" holding plants from different parts of the world. The Palm House replicates a tropical rainforest environment, while the Desert House is attuned to plants that thrive in an arid, hot landscape with minimal rainfall. The Krohn Conservatory is also home to the Orchid House, which showcases orchids from all around the world, and the John Carroll Bonsai Gallery, which highlights the unique techniques used to grow bonsai trees.
These nine destinations are just the start of what you'll find in Ohio. From limestone caverns deep underground to the rolling, rustic landscape of Amish Country, there's so much to explore. What will you capture next?

It's finally summer in Northeast Ohio. At least it feels like summer, and that's good enough for us! Time to get outside and get moving.
Luckily, we'll have plenty of opportunities to do just that in the Cleveland, Akron, and Canton areas over the coming months. Lace up your running shoes and get ready for these exciting summer races in Northeast Ohio this season!
4524 E. 49th St., Cleveland, OH 44125
You'll have multiple opportunities to participate in the Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation Parkrun throughout the summer. This weekly 5k takes place every Saturday at 9 am in Cleveland's Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation. It's a fun, family-friendly event that's always free to participants. Whether you want to run, walk, jog, volunteer, or simply cheer on the participants, it's a great way to spend a Saturday morning. Stick around afterward for post-Parkrun coffee at the Canalway Center Café.
5712 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708
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The Sippo Lake Parkrun is another event that takes place weekly throughout the summer months, giving you numerous chances to participate. Starting every Saturday at 8 am, the Sippo Lake Parkrun follows a picturesque route through Sippo Lake Park in Canton. The course utilizes a combination of paved roads, crushed limestone paths, and hiking trails and offers some beautiful scenery. This weekly run is entirely volunteer-organized, and anyone is welcome to participate free of charge.
288 Spicer St., Akron, OH 44304
Summa Health's Akron Marathon Race Series includes several much-anticipated races and runs throughout the summer months in Akron. First on the schedule this year is the National Interstate 8k and 1 Mile race. The event spans two days, with the 1-mile race kicking off at 7 pm on June 24, followed by the 8k run at 7:30 am on June 25. Both races begin on The University of Akron college campus and follow a course that provides a scenic tour of Downtown Akron. Registration is still open, and awards will be given to top finishers in various categories.
2425 W. 11th St. #2, Cleveland, OH 44113
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Would you run a 5k for a taco? On Saturday, July 16, you can do just that and help fight hunger in Cleveland while you're at it. Will Run For Tacos is a 5k run/walk that helps raise money for the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. Participants will be rewarded at the end of the race with a finisher medal, t-shirt, and free taco courtesy of The South Side (additional prizes will be given to top finishers). Race day registration and packet pickup is at 7:30 on the morning of the 16th, and the walk/run gets underway at 8:30, beginning at Hermes Sports & Events.
499 Memorial Pkwy., Akron, OH 44310
Also taking place on July 16, the Akron Trail Marathon is a challenging race that takes participants through some of the most beautiful parklands in the Akron area. Whether you choose to run the course as a marathon, half marathon, or 10k—the event includes all three—you'll be treated to scenery including woodlands, waterfalls, historic canal locks, and sweeping meadows. The Akron Trail Marathon helps support the Summit Metro Parks Foundation trail fund and follows a portion of the (mostly paved) Towpath Trail over varied terrain, with plenty of hills to keep things interesting!
1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114
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Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is an amazing local German microbrewery and beer garden in Downtown Cleveland, and every year they host the Hofbräuhaus Cleveland Half Marathon, 10k and 5k run/walk. The festivities begin bright and early on Sunday, August 7, with registration and packet pickup beginning at 6 am, followed by the half marathon at 7, and then the 10k and 5k at 8. The races begin and end at the brewery, and all participants will receive a complimentary beer and bratwurst, in addition to t-shirts and finisher medals.
Front Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Returning for its 16th year in 2022, the Burning River Endurance Run & Relay is not for the faint of heart. This grueling run and relay race follows a wide range of roads and trails from Cuyahoga Falls through some of Northeast Ohio's most beautiful and rugged landscapes, including Summit Metro Parks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Stretching from Saturday, July 30 to Sunday, July 31, the event includes 100-mile and 50-mile solo runs, as well as a 100-mile relay.
200 Innovation Way, Akron, OH 44316
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Akron has long been known as the "Rubber Capital of the World," in large part because the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has been headquartered here since 1898. This year, August 13 will bring about the return of the Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k, one of several summer events that are part of the Akron Marathon Race Series. The race starts at 6:30 am, with the starting line at the Goodyear Proving Grounds and the finish line at Goodyear World Headquarters.
Where will you hit the ground running this summer around Northeast Ohio?

What's not to love about strawberries? They taste delicious, look good on a plate, and are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. Add some color and sweetness to your summer eating with strawberries you pick yourself at these wonderful farms around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
3275 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089
The property where Aufdenkampe Family Farm now sits dates back to the Western Reserve. After the Aufdenkampes purchased the farm from its original owners, they became a fixture at the Cleveland Produce Terminal, selling their fresh fruits and vegetables. In 2018, the family decided to focus on strawberries, their most popular crop. The 2022 picking season starts around June 1. Follow them on Facebook for updates.
4413 Center Rd., Avon, OH 44011
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Three generations of family work side-by-side at Fitch's Farm Market, founded in 1983 by Richard and wife Rita. Sons Adam and Daniel and grandfather Robert handle everything from field management and harvesting to mechanic duties. In addition to strawberries, visitors can pick their own beans, peppers, and tomatoes in season. Stop by the on-site market for other fruits and vegetables as well as flowers in flats and hanging baskets. Follow them on Facebook for information about u-pick availability. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
2901 Batdorf Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
From its humble beginnings in 1950 on a small patch of land along Highland Avenue, Maurer Farms grew into its current location in 1961. Strawberries have been the primary crop since day one, with peaches, sweet corn, and other fruits and vegetables added over the years. Maurer Farms offers u-pick strawberries and raspberries, and their on-site market sells their own produce along with products from other local farmers. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday between late May and mid-October. Watch their website and Facebook page for updates.
9331 Mitchell-Dewitt Rd., Plain City, OH 43064
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Farmer Paul and wife Shelly, aka Berrygirl, are a match made at OSU. Together they run Mitchell's Berries & Blooms on a farm that's been in the family for more than two centuries. After son Jake doubled their raspberry production, Paul and Shelly took his advice and added strawberries to their crops. With events like Sunrise and Sunset Yoga, Dairy Day, and the Berry Fairy Summer Tea Party, Mitchell's Berries & Blooms offers fun for the whole family. Follow them on Facebook for current information on hours and availability.
6843 State Route 54, Mechanicsburg, OH 43044
Can't get enough fresh berries? You'll be in seventh heaven with a visit to Folck Family Farm. Berry picking season kicks off in late spring with strawberries, followed by raspberries in June and blackberries in July. After growing up on dairy and cattle farms, owner Bob Folck had a successful career in sales, but he couldn't resist the call of the farming life. Bob and wife Cindy began growing berries in 2003, and in 2018 they opened a winery and tasting room selling wine made from the fruits of their fields. Visit their website and Facebook page for updates.
5462 Babbitt Rd., New Albany, OH 43054
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In the 1970s, Farmer Jim Doran sold his produce right out in the front yard from one of the wagons that are such a nostalgic part of Americana. Fast forward to 2022, and Doran's Farm Market is a popular destination filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, baked goods, and beverages. Customers also have the opportunity to pick their own strawberries and other select produce. Doran's Farm Market opens with the strawberry season in late May and runs through pumpkin season in early November. Check their website and Facebook page for information.
1640 Stubbs Mill Rd., Lebanon, OH 45036
A trip to Irons Fruit Farm is truly an event. Since its beginning in the early 1900s, the farm has expanded to include pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, apples, and pumpkins. The on-site market and bakery is known for the signature cinnamon cider donuts and apple fritters. They also carry jam, jellies, and other specialty products made from produce grown on the farm. Follow them on Facebook for information about the vendor fair, which features local craft artisans as well as food trucks and live entertainment. Summer hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
2822 Center Rd., Wilmington, OH 45177
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For more than four generations, Stokes Berry Farm has been a fixture in the Cincinnati area. Visitors can pick strawberries and black raspberries from the lush fields or preorder white Georgia peaches, tart Michigan cherries, and other fruits for convenient pickup. The whole family can enjoy a stroll along the creek or catch-and-release fishing in the six-acre lake. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch! There is a $25 fee for a three-hour fishing pass. In-season hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. Watch their Facebook page for posts about the current schedule.
5832 River Rd., Hebron, KY 41048
Located in a scenic rural area, McGlasson Farms is rich with family history. After moving west from Virginia in the 1860s, the McGlassons built a log cabin and began farming the land. While the family had success selling to various markets, they discovered there was even more potential in creating a produce stand on their own property. Today, McGlasson Farms even has a devoted following of customers from all around the region. Visitors can join in the fun picking their own strawberries, blackberries, and other fresh produce. In-season hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekends. Watch the website and Facebook page for schedule information.
Strawberries and cream has been a tradition at the classic Wimbledon tennis tournament since it began in 1877. What's your favorite way to eat strawberries?