Murphy – The Murphy Farmers Market brought out more than the usual vendors Saturday.
The Cherokee Clay Food Alliance partnered with the market to present the first Tomato Fest at the L&N Depot downtown. The day offered produce, arts and crafts, plus tomato-based samples and activities for kids and adults.
There was a happy “tomato” with legs walking about the market, including a tomato hat and red tights. The tomato was played by Lillian Schwallenberg, who also helped with the kids’ activities including face painting and feather necklace making.
“I feel good, I’m excited,” she said. The cheerful 12-year-old came out in costume to make her neighbor laugh.
Local musician Troy Underwood provided live music, which was heard throughout the market. A few local restaurants competed in a Bloody Mary contest, and there were
relay races for kids as well as some divine samples, including different tomatoes, salsas, gazpacho and tomato pastes.
Under bright and sunny skies, visitors to the pet-friendly farmers market enjoyed the tomato-themed activities as well as the usual goings-on, such as a variety of produce, honey, jams, jellies, cakes and other food goodies for sale.
There were also lots of interesting and fun crafts and homemade items to browse, like handmade bird houses, jewelry, soaps, hats, baby attire, pottery, clocks, signs, plants, flowers and more.
Tomato, tamato – no matter how it’s pronounced, everyone appeared to have a good time.