Saturday morning and we are off to a farmers market in Hammond, LA. The market is in the historic area of town alongside the railroad tracks, which are still used. Luckily for us no trains passed while we were shopping. The market offered the usual items – vegetables, eggs, honey, jams, and crafts. What set this market apart was their frequent shopper card. These cards are popular with coffeehouses and eateries but we have never seen one at a farmers market.
The cards are available at the Farmers Market Table and each time a purchase is made, the farmer you buy from adds a star to the card. When the card is filled it is put in a container and at the end of each month there is a drawing. Each month the farmers/crafters donate an item and it is added to a basket. This basket of goodies is given to the winner of the drawing. We think this is a unique way to promote the market and its vendors as well as showing appreciation to the shoppers who support the market.
Also each month recipes are available using the ingredients from the market – fresh as well as mixes that are for sale. These recipes are on laminated 4×5 cards for easy keeping.
Besides eggs, veggies, and blueberries we purchased boudin egg rolls. We are always willing to try something different.
As we RV around the country and seek out farmers markets, we find each market offers a unique approach to market life through its market. Although this market was small, its distinctive offering makes it uniquely the Hammond Market.
Peppers
Vendors
