August, an exciting time for all. Back-to-school shopping is well underway and school buses are not the only yellow thing on the community’s mind as the annual Youth and Corn Festival is right around the corner.
On August 6 from 10 o’clock to 1 o’clock, families can swing by the farmer’s market for a special treat. Everything from, farmer’s market vendors, a cooking demonstration, fair entries and history of corn exhibits there is a little bit for everyone.
Community members will not want to miss out on the 12th annual festival as youth from across the county have entered veggie plates, cupcake decorations, needlework, eggs, farm-to-table corn dishes, and the fan favorite corn plates. These entries allow youth to highlight their skills as well as show off some of the hard work their families have put in back home in their gardens.
As you walk through the festival and glance at the fair entries, I am sure many may reflect back on your own time in 4-H or FFA where you may have entered similar entries into the Tennessee Valley Fair.
If there are any youth in the community that would still like to enter in a fair entry, you have just enough time as the deadline is August 5. Entries can be turned in at the farmer’s market pavilion from 8:30 to 4 o’clock.
Along with some youth showcases, there will also be 20 vendors onsite offering loaves of bread, sweets, fresh produce, crafts, soaps and of course lots of corn.
“When selecting corn, choose bright green, moist husks that are tightly wrapped against the cobs,” said a Union County UT Extension Employee. “Feel kernels through the husk, feeling for plump and plentiful kernels. The corn should feel firm and heavy when you pick it up and will have brown tassels.”
While you stroll through the vendors and find recipes for your new favorite corn dish you may want to stop by one of the food trucks and get a scoop of delicious ice cream or loaded BBQ nachos.
Along with traditional farmer’s market vendors and activities, there will also be cornhole games and live musical performances throughout the event. The Union County Sheriff’s Department will also be in attendance to provide educational demonstrations with the K9 unit. You may even see a Union County Patriot band member or two as they will be showcasing their skills and warming up for the fall performance season.
Jody Smith, the Union County Farmer’s Market Manager, is looking forward to being in a new space and showing off all of the local produce and crafts that they have to offer.
“Come enjoy the great vendors and other great entertainment that will be offered,” said Smith. “We want to become the place where the community meets!”
Along with the Youth and Corn Festival, the Union County Farmer’s Market would like to invite community members to their Pumpkin Fall Palooza at the Market on September 24 from 10 o’clock to 1 o’clock.
If community members have any questions, they can contact Smith at Unionfmkt@gmail.com or 865-585-3351.