hburgnews.com

Carrying your camera along when you visit the Harrisonburg Farmers Market could help put the market on the map. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has announced a photo contest for pictures submitted from farmers’ markets around the state. Cash prizes will be awarded for the top entry in three age groups. In addition, the market from which the most photos are submitted will also win a prize.

The contest coincides with Virginia Farmers’ Market Week, which Governor McDonnell has named as August 1-7.

Josie Showalter, manager of the Harrisonburg Farmers Market, said that the market is promoting the photo contest in its newsletter and that she has noticed more market attendees taking photos recently. Showalter also pointed out the special activities that are taking place this week.

At Thursday’s market former 26th District Delegate and current VDACS commissioner Matt Lohr is expected to attend. There will also be a cooking demonstration and tasting by the staff of The Local Chop and Grill House restaurant.

Events at Saturday’s market include carriage rides from the Water Street parking deck to the market and live music. Mayor Kai Degner will read the Governor’s Farmers’ Market Week proclamation at noon.

Activities for children will include a seed planting program, face painting and an appearance by the Gus Bus.

The Harrisonburg Farmers Market takes place Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Thursday afternoons from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. from April to Thanksgiving at the Turner Pavilion in the Liberty Street municipal parking lot.