It's gonna be MAY!

Big things are happening in the small town of Oak Grove, Kentucky, our closest neighbor to the north. Next up, the annual Spring into Summer Festival on the grounds of Valor Hall Conference and Event Center, featuring Josh Turner in concert on the Viceroy Performing Arts Center stage.

For the last 10 years, the Clarksville Downtown Market (ODM) has been offering a place for farmers and food purveyors of many varieties to interact with the residents of Clarksville and

its surrounding areas. From the very beginning, the Market has succeeded in introducing positive activities to the Downtown Clarksville area in a gorgeously inviting and open-air setting

featuring local farmers and artisans who offer locally-grown fresh produce, food items and handcrafted products. The Markey strives to provide an opportunity for local customers to connect with local business while enhancing the quality of life in our community. Come enjoy live music, meet the Market mascot, “Corny the Cob,” and experience activities on several market days. Because of the generosity and support of the City of Clarksville, the Market’s hard-working vendors and the loyal Market customers who purchase items each week, the Clarksville Downtown Market continues to grow and flourish, year after year. Since it’s induction in October 2009, the Market has grown from 16 vendors to over 70. And, in 2015, it was voted Number 1 Farmers Market in Tennessee through farmland.org for the sixth straight season. Seasons Market, an all-natural store in Clarksville, has sponsored the Market for the last four years. In addition to selling their products at the Market, Seasons also sells many of the vendors’ products in their store during the off season such as produce from local farmers and handmade jewelry and soaps. Janis Emery, owner of Pure Joy Soap, has been with the Market since its very first year. In her first year, she recalls her main goal being that of finding a sense of community, to meet fellow makers and producers as well as farmers who could help her with her own

soap creations. “That was 10 years ago,” said Janice, “and I have found all of that (with the Market) and so much more.” To Janis, she has seen so many small businesses begin and flourish by being part of the Market over the years. “It has done so much for our community,” she added. “And the Market Managers have been incredible!” The community is why Janis is still doing what she does, 10 years later. “It’s more than just the customers – it’s the other vendors that become your friends and the continuous support from the City and the Parks and Recreation Department – who make this Market so outstanding.” There is no denying that participating in the Market every weekend is hard work, especially in the summer heat, but Janis doesn’t hesitate to say that there is no other place she would want to spend her Saturday mornings.

Downtown Market 2019: Saturdays from May 25 thru October 12.

8am to 1pm

**Hours are subject to change due to weather1 Public Square Clarksville, TN Follow the Clarksville Downtown Market on Facebook for more info.