Food & Beverage
Beech Mountain Farmers Market: A Small-Town Market with Big Sky Views
By Julie Farthing
You might say Beech Mountain Farmers Market is a garden in the sky! At 5,506 feet, this unique monthly gathering on top of Beech Mountain is the highest farmers market in elevation this side of the Mississippi. Every first Friday of the month, from June until the crisp autumn days of October, the Beech Mountain Farmers Market unfolds, offering a vibrant tapestry of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local flavors.
Imagine a bustling marketplace teeming with the sights, sounds, and aromas of a traditional farmers market, but set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As you stroll through the market, you’ll be greeted by friendly farmers and artisans who proudly display their wares, eager to share their stories and passion for their craft.
The air is filled with the heady scent of fresh-baked bread, the sweet aroma of ripe berries, and the earthy fragrance of microgreens, herbs and spices. Colorful stalls overflow with an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables, including plump tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sweet corn, and heirloom apples. Bring a cooler for the farm raised beef, pork, lamb and eggs that are also available. Local honey, jams, and jellies add a touch of sweetness to the market, while freshly cut flowers bring a pop of color and cheer.
Beyond the produce, the Beech Mountain Farmers Market showcases the talents of local artisans. Handcrafted jewelry, stained glass, art, and textiles are just a few of the many treasures you’ll find.
“There is something for everyone,” remarks Sandy Carr, volunteer Market Manager. “My favorite part of the market is all the connecting and the learning that goes on between everyone: Farmers share growing tips, residents share recipes, artists share stories and everyone experiences a great time in person—together. It is a real community building event.”
The market is run solely by volunteers with support from the Town of Beech Mountain, along with a grant from the Tourism Development Authority. Over 3,000 people attended the 2023 market, doubling the market’s first-year attendance. Carr expects this year, with 36 vendors, those numbers will rise again. “It has spurred commerce tremendously,” says Carr of the market. “It’s not only a showcase of the mountain, but everything the mountain has to offer.”
Upcoming themes are as follows:
Celebrate Christmas in July on the 5th by finding holiday gifts, while snapping a summer photo with Santa!
Attendees are invited to wear Red, White and Blue for the August 2nd market while rooting on Olympic Team USA and cheering on the Annual Volunteer Fire Department and Police Department Cornhole Challenge.
Attendees are invited to BEE Happy on Beech at the September 6th market where vendors will share the importance of bees and a wealth of products from our busy friends.
Finally, the October 4th market is all about Fall Ya’ll. “The Collective” Band will perform a FREE Concert at the Fall Finale Farmers’ Market. As always, the first 100 attendees at each market will receive a free market shopping bag. “It’s a great time for everyone to celebrate a successful market season with our farmers and artists,” says Carr of the closing event.
No need to worry about finding a spot for your vehicle—ample parking is available for everyone who attends. After the market, take a hike on the mountain’s 27 miles of scenic trails or dine in one of the many eateries for lunch or dinner. To find out what the town has to offer, stop by the community tent to learn more about what else is happening on Beech.
The Beech Mountain Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy fresh produce and handmade goods. It’s a gathering place for the community, a celebration of local culture, and a testament to the abundance and beauty of the region. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Beech Mountain Farmers Market is an experience not to be missed.
Return to Featured Content on the Home Page >>
From the CML Kitchen…
By Meagan Goheen
PIMENTO (LESS) CHEESE
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 8 oz softened cream cheese
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
2 TBSP chopped Calabrian chiles
(a nice spicy substitute for Pimentos)
DIRECTIONS:
Mix ingredients and enjoy!
PRESSED ITALIAN SANDWICH
INGREDIENTS:
1 Ciabatta baguette or 4 ciabatta rolls ½ lb Italian meats of your choice
(Salami, prosciutto, Capicola)
¼ cup Pesto (prepared or homemade) 2 cups arugula
16 oz fresh mozzarella
16 oz roasted red peppers
2 TBSP Balsamic glaze
DIRECTIONS:
- Slice bread, spread both sides with pesto.
• Layer with meats, cheese, roasted red peppers, and arugula. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. - Wrap the sandwich tightly. Press sandwich in the fridge overnight using cast iron pan or brick.
- *Make it your own: add olive tapenade, marinated artichoke hearts, spinach, tomatoes, or fresh basil leaves.