Now that Jack Frost has firmly let us know that fall is upon us, it is time to check out the garden patch for that giant pumpkin that’s supposed to be hiding underneath what was just a week ago all that lush foliage.
It’s time to talk about green thumbs and big, orange pumpkins.
It’s time to establish some bragging rights.
It’s time for the Giant Pumpkin Weigh In.
It all happens at the Quesnel Farmers’ Market on the last outdoor market on Saturday, Oct. 14. Weigh-In will be at 10:30. Prizes will be awarded for the largest three pumpkins, starting at $100 for first place.
Like last year, there are opportunities to show off even if you don’t have a green thumb, as the day will also include a pumpkin pie contest, laced with cash prizes as well. Judging will be done by local politicians and celebrities sworn to objectivity and fairness.
The pumpkin contests will take place just prior to music by the almost-famous Spruce Swingstream, a local favourite.
There is still a large selection of fall vegetables at the market; in fact, those few nights of freezing temperatures triggered a response in many vegetables that converts starches to sugars, thereby sweetening the produce. You will find the crunchiest of carrots, the best broccoli, and all the other fall crops, such as onions, squash, potatoes, kale, kohlrabi, spinach, garlic, and so much more.
There are also many choices when it comes to home baking and preserving, from breads and cookies, to the best of pies, syrups, jams and jellies. Customers have been enjoying some great lunch options all season long, with Indian food, pirogies, tacos, food from the Philippines, and gourmet sandwiches.
The market is also a great place to find that one-of-a-kind wooden bowl, tasteful jewellery, and so many other handcrafted items.
Again, the last outdoor Farmers’ Market for the season will be Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Helen Dixon Site from 8:30 to 1:00.
Contributed by Rob Borsato