The spring weather has finally arrived in Loudoun County! Spring brings chirping birds, the smell of fresh cut grass and the opportunity to buy the freshest, local food available. The Middleburg Farmers Market opened for the season on Saturday, May 5, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Local residents will have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of fresh products from local farmers, including fruits and vegetables, fresh breads and baked goods and meat products, just to name a few.

"Last year's Middleburg market was not only a success, but a way of life for many local residents," said Middleburg Market Manager Sally Bolton. "We are again excited to work with the Town of Middleburg, the supportive community members, and welcome new vendors to produce another successful market in Middleburg."

During the month of May, customers will find the following fruits and vegetables: salad greens, "micro-mix", basil, asparagus, rhubarb, spinach, onions, radishes, strawberries, turnips, kale, arugula, and spring onions.

The Middleburg Market is one of seven markets sponsored by the Loudoun Valley HomeGrown Markets Association. These are homegrown, producer only markets, meaning the people who sell you the food are the people who grow it. This system guarantees customers will find only produce that is both fresh and local. The producers stand behind their products 100 percent, and are happy to share information with you about how their products are raised.

"By buying fruits, vegetables, meats, and eggs at your local farmer's market, you are supporting local agriculture and a continuing supply of local foods," said Bolton. "Many fruits and vegetables arrive at the markets within 24-hours of harvest from the field – you just can't beat the quality and freshness!"

The Middleburg Market operates on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the parking lot behind the Middleburg Community Center on Stonewall Avenue. The market runs for six months, May through the end of October.

The Middleburg Market keeps its shoppers informed of weekly specials and vendor products through an e-newsletter. To sign-up to get the latest information, visit the LVHMA Web site at www.loudounfarmersmarkets.com.