Charlie Breitrose
Some of the veggies available at the Parker Farm stand at the opening day of the Watertown Farmers Market at the Arsenal on the Charles.
Despite the a rainy day, many eager shoppers hit the opening day of the Watertown Farmers Market at the Arsenal on the Charles on Thursday.
Fresh vegetables, nuts, preserves, ice cream and Tex Mex food were among the offerings at the Farmers Market. Market Manager Kate Weinstein said she got brisk business.
“We’ve got a really good turn out for the first day, even with the rain,” Weinstein said.
Charlie Breitrose
Tex-Mex Eats served up tamales, salsa and other food for hungry market shoppers.
A recent Community Health study found that many residents wanted a farmers market in town, said Steve Magoon Watertown Director of Community Development and Planning.
“That takes money and resources,” Magoon said. “We are just delighted that athenahealth came along to take it on.”
Charlie Breitrose
Preserves from Fig & Doves at Thursday’s farmers market.
Sponsoring the farmers market helps athenahealth fulfill its goal for promoting a health food supply, said Bridger McGaw, director of athenaenvironment. The company owns the Arsenal on the Charles complex, which sits near the spot on the Charles River where the first Europeans landed in Watertown and met the Pequosette Indians (a scene depicted on the town seal).
The Watertown Arsenal, now called the Arsenal on the Charles, was a historic spot where munitions were developed for the U.S. Army, and is near where a market historically stood, McGaw said.
“athenahealth is proud to be adding to the history of Watertown by sponsoring this market,” McGaw said.
Charlie Breitrose
Despite the rain, many people ventured out to the opening day of the Watertown Farmers Market.
East End Councilor Angeline Kounelis said she is glad to see the improvements at the Arsenal on the Charles.
“I am excited about all the happenings going on at this complex,” Kounelis said.
The Farmers Market is a great way to support local farmers, said Councilor Aaron Dushku.
“I have always supported local agriculture, and what better way than cutting out the middle man and buying straight from the farmers,” Dushku said. “Tell your friends so it can be a successful market.”
Charlie Breitrose
Le Prestige entertained Farmers Market shoppers with some music.