The Botetourt Farmers Market is hosting the third annual Tomato Festival on Saturday, July 29 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Although previously held at the Daleville Town Center for the past two years, it will be moved to Buchanan Town Park this year in order to spread out as Daleville Town Center undergoes major construction projects.
Three years ago, the market chose to host a Tomato Festival because of Botetourt’s rich history in growing and canning tomatoes. According to an article published in 1903 by The Times Dispatch in Richmond, “Botetourt pack[ed] more tomatoes every year than [were] packed in any other county in America, save Harford County, Md. There [were] between 125 and 150 canneries, large and small.”
This year’s festival will feature new attractions, including food trucks and the Homestead Creamery Ice Cream Truck. Local Botetourt musicians who are part of the Trinity Tree Travelers Old Time Band return once again to play on stage throughout the festival. Everyone can enjoy free heirloom tomato tastings and read up on dozens of agricultural fun facts posted throughout the festival. The Tomato Sandwich Contest has been postponed this year due to location change challenges.
The Botetourt Farmers Market usually sets up each Saturday at the Daleville Town Center, but all of the market vendors will be located at the festival at Buchanan Town Park on July 29, selling local produce, meat, baked goods, and artisan crafts.
For more information, visit the Botetourt Farmers Market website at www.botetourtfarmersmarket.com.
~ Botetourt Farmers Market
