Opening Day @ The 2012 Westport Farmers' Market

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The Westport Farmers' Market opened today with an official ribbon cutting ceremony attended by members of the Fairfield County community who came to show their support for the market and "living local." First Selectman Gordon Joseloff and State Representative Jonathon Steinberg brandished their scissors with vigor as market shoppers applauded the start of the Westport Farmers' Market season. Also poised for the big day was Chef Jon Vaast of Dressing Room, one of the 23 guest chefs who will be appearing at the market throughout the season doing recipe demos and tastings (more on that later). The crowd was packed with people enjoying their Skinny Pines Pizza, Raus' Cold Romans, Boxcar Cantina Tamales, and Du Soleil Fine Foods...and the rain held out. VIEW PHOTO GALLERY HERE.

Wondering what's new this year? You can see the complete list of old, new and rotating market vendors here but we did scout out a few new products to watch. We couldn't help but gawk wantingly at the organic artisanal wasabi linguini and pumpkin fettucini from Flour City Pasta, and Doc's Organic Maple Syrup is simply put, delicious. The milk from Litchfield's Arethusa Farm is new this season and its clean sweet flavor will transport you back to childhood. Easton's Sport Hill Farm was boasting vibrant greens and Local Catch promises fresh fish to throw on that grill all summer. 

We encourage you to become a "Friend of the Market," where a small donation buys you a cool burlap bag and discounts with all market vendors. 

A special thanks to Westport Farmers' Market Director, Lori Cochran, for her tireless efforts in maintaining the market we love year round as well as her passion for sourcing farms and products that help all of us live local. 

Stay tuned for our coverage of the Guest Chef program and the official 2012 season lineup.