New Carrboro Farmers’ Market manager Sarah Blacklin at the new year-round market last weekend. Blacklin, who has worked at Montrose Gardens near Hillsborough and for farmer Ken Dawson, formally took over as manager this month. Photo by Kirk Ross

The Carrboro Farmers’ Market re-opened last week, starting the first winter season in style with the cooperation of the weather and strong interest from market regulars.

Winter vegetables were on hand, including purple cauliflower, sweet potatoes and cabbage. Most kinds of meats were plentiful as were a variety of cheeses from Celebrity Dairy and Chapel Hill Creamery.
More than a dozen vendors showed up and new market manager Sarah Blacklin said several farmers had stopped by to see what kind of turnout they might expect should they decide to set up a booth in the weeks ahead.

Blacklin, who took over as market manager over the holidays, said the response was so good that some farmers are considering opening up additional hoop houses to accommodate demand.

Winter hours at the market are 9 a.m. to noon — rain, snow or shine. The market returns to its normal operating hours of 7 a.m. to noon on March 15. The Wednesday Carrboro Farmers’ Market is closed for the season and re-opens April 9, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. The Thursday Southern Village Farmers’ Market is closed for the season and re-opens May 1, 4 to 7 p.m. — Staff reports