Lexington, KY - Horse Capital of the World

BLUEGRASS FLAVORS AND FEEL: There are few more fun things to do in the summer than while away a Saturday morning at the Lexington Farmers’ Market. Begun in 1975, this cooperative has grown from modest to a major downtown attraction. In its history, it has established a few satellites as well and, at last, in 2010, the largest, or at least most visible, location settled its Saturday market at the Fifth Third Bank Pavilion (a site that goes musical and sudsy on hot Thursday nights). This “arcade” offers structure, shade and parameters.

www.lexingtonfarmersmarket.com

When I moved here in 1994, rows of trucks parked along Old Vine and set up stands on the sidewalk. It was popular then, but sort of makeshift.  I liked the impromptu feeling, but there were plenty of reasons for the market to seek out a dedicated home.

Of course, you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, but there are other local products that are only found here, like the crepe stand that has griddles-will-travel and serves up sweet or savory pancakes on paper plates. In addition, there are at least three vendors of cheeses that are giving away free samples of everything from familiar cheddars to bourbon-laced exotics. The perfume of fresh-roasted Caffe Marco’s beans permeates the air, but if you want a cooler beverage, someone is always selling lemonade.

Lots of us (like me) eat and walk, but for the more mindful among us, there are tables with umbrellas where community life, brunch and breakfast all converge.

The market moves inside mid-autumn, down at Victorian Square, but the light and the smells, like so many experiences, play out much better al fresco.