As summer heats up, farmers' markets become a hub of fresh produce, artisanal goods and community spirit. Two standout local markets are the Deerfield Farmers Market and the newly formed Mason Market on the Mile. Among the vendors, That Guy's Family Farm and Keever Creek Farms will provide residents with a taste of summer's bounty.
Guy and Sandy Ashmore have been mainstays of local farming for decades. They are well-known faces at the Deerfield Farmers Market, bringing along a variety of organic produce that highlights the best of each season.
Their commitment to organic farming means that everything they sell is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This dedication ensures the health of their land and provides their customers with the freshest and most nutritious produce.
Guy explains, "We firmly believe that healthy soil leads to healthy plants, animals, people and ultimately to a healthy community."
The Deerfield Farmers Market is a beloved community event where families gather, neighbors catch up and everyone enjoys the best local products. In addition to That Guy's Family Farm, the market features diverse vendors offering everything from fresh flowers to homemade baked goods.
Guy reflects, "When we helped found the Deerfield Farmers Market 23 years ago, we were unsure where the journey would lead us. Our expectations have been overwhelmingly exceeded. Some have been coming from the beginning and now we see their children shopping."
The market's long-standing presence in the community is proof of its importance. It supports local agriculture, provides a venue for small businesses and fosters a sense of community. Visitors can expect live music, food trucks and special events throughout the season, making it a perfect weekend outing.
The Mason Market on the Mile is the latest addition to the market scene. Located in the heart of Mason, this market promises to bring fresh, local produce and artisanal products to the community on July 19, August 9 and September 13 from 4-7 p.m.
Chris Heim, market organizer shares, "The market offers seasonal produce throughout spring and summer and into fall. There are also baked goods, homemade bread, spices, flowers, honey, fresh eggs, crafts and more! We have a wide assortment of vendors."
This new market is part of the Music in Mason concert series and was inspired by valuable feedback from the Make the Mile campaign. The City of Mason and the Mason-Deerfield Community Development Corporation aim to build on the success of nearby markets by offering a convenient evening option for those who can't make it to the morning markets.
"I think there are many benefits to a farmers market, first and foremost that it’s a shop local event. Most of our vendors are from the greater Mason area, so by shopping at the market, it’s supporting local business," explains Chris.
Keever Creek Farms is one of the vendors joining the Mason Market on the Mile. Tim and Whitney Smith moved from Kansas City during the pandemic, seeking to be closer to family and to manage the family farm. They bring a deep connection and commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Tim shares, "Farming and gardening allow us to connect to the land and to the passion my father-in-law, Marvin Duren, has for composting, good soil and growing for those in need. We love working with our hands, playing in the dirt and getting back to the basics of living off the land together."
Keever Creek Farms also operates a year-round roadside shop offering fresh eggs, seasonal produce, compost, topsoil, mulch, hay, sawmill services and firewood in the fall and winter.
Both the Deerfield Farmers Market and the Mason Market on the Mile offer a unique opportunity to explore the region's rich agricultural heritage. Shopping at these markets supports local farmers and ensures access to the freshest and most nutritious food.
"We firmly believe that healthy soil leads to healthy plants, animals, people and ultimately to a healthy community."
Market Info
Deerfield Farmers Market
Saturdays, May - October, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Mason Market on the Mile
7/19, 8/9, 9/13, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Seasonal Offerings
ThatGuysFamilyFarm.com
Summer: Heirloom tomatoes, greens, cucumbers, zucchinis, bell peppers
Fall: Pumpkins, winter squashes, root vegetables
KeeverCreekFarms.com
Summer: Cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, potatoes, greens, eggplants, peppers, zucchini
Fall: Butternut squash, delicata squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkins