Right now, you may be asking yourself: "How can I celebrate National Farmers Market Week?" Why not visit a local restaurant that utilizes local produce in their menu choices and specialty items?The Athens Independent Restaurant Association (AIRA), a group of locally-owned restaurants, purchases produce, meats and specialty items from both the Farmers Market and directly from local producers, giving diners some fresh, healthy alternatives when it comes to eating out.

Or, if you want to begin producing or processing your own fresh vegetables and fruit, then participate in a workshop with Community Food Initiatives.They offer monthly workshops for all skill levels, and encourage the development of a strong local food system.

To kick off National Farmers Market Week, the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, in partnership with ACEnet, will be on hand at the Athens Farmers Market on Saturday, August 2 to distribute reusable canvas shopping bags.