Jersey’s open-air markets return this weekend when stalls selling local produce will be set up in St Aubin.
The Farm and Craft Market begins its 2014 run at 9 am on Saturday and will be held on the second and fourth Saturday on the month up to 11 October. There will be local produce and wares on display, including fresh seasonal vegetable, meat products, seafood cider and crafts sold by the people who grow, catch or make them.
Many will be members of the Genuine Jersey Products Association, which champions local produce and seasonality. It has been timed to coincide with the Jersey Textile Showcase at the Harbour Gallery until 11 March.
St Aubin, where markets were first recorded in 1583, is not the only venue for this year. Those previously held in Weighbridge Place are relocating to the Island’s traditional ancient market place - ‘Place du Marche’ – or as we know it today, the Royal Square.
Alternating with St Aubin, farm and craft markets will be held on Saturdays from April to Christmas and dates will be confirmed shortly. And, every Sunday from 13 April to 26 October, the area outside Jersey Turbot in St Catherine, St Martin, will become a market place for local producers.
The Chief Executive of Genuine Jersey, John Garton, said, the Jersey Tourism farm and craft markets enable Islanders and visitors to connect with Jersey’s rural economy and to buy the best the Island has to offer.
‘Markets have been a tradition of local economic life since the first Lé Vièr Marchi were established in the late 16th century. Jersey is fortunate to have vibrant covered markets in the town which are complimented by the farm and craft markets, fairs and events held throughout the year. We have fabulous fresh produce on our doorstep and skilled producers to be proud of and what better ways to showcase it, in historic and picturesque locations,’ he said.
For further information on this year’s markets go to www.jersey.com and search for markets and www.genuinejersey.com
