Farmers' Markets

As summer arrives, so does Farmers’ Market season, and Harvard University Dining Services (HUDS) is pleased to host two on our campus.

Just outside the yard, on Tuesdays from 12:30-6:00pm until October 28, you can enjoy the Farmers’ Market at Harvard. Entering our third season, located on the plot of land between the Science Center and Memorial Hall, we feature several farms or orchards, bakeries, and specialty vendors, such as chocolatiers and cheese makers. The market has expanded this year to 11 booths, plus several rotating vendors.

Similarly, we are hosting (with the Allston Development Group) a new market in Allston, on the corner of North Harvard Street and Western Avenue. The Allston Farmers’ Market, operating on Wednesdays from 3-7pm through October 29, also has several farms, bakeries, and specialty purveyors, offering such things as maple syrup and herbs.

One of the unique new additions to both markets is Flats Mentor Farm, in Lancaster, MA, which trains and mentors immigrant farmers (largely Hmong and African refugees) in growing in this area and selling their produce at markets. As a result, both the Harvard and Allston markets will have a unique selection of Asian produce and herbs.

Additionally, both markets will accept Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) food stamps, Women, Infant & Children (WIC) vouchers, and Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) coupons.

These markets complement the efforts HUDS makes year-round to buy local and sustainable goods. While our school year does not align ideally with the growing season, we are still able to feature up to 40% local produce in the fall, and countless more local groceries.

Why buy locally? Money kept in this region supports the rural character of Massachusetts, as well as smaller area businesses. It also minimizes the environmental impacts of transportation and extensive packaging. And foods enjoyed closer to their point of growth or production are fresher and inevitably taste better.

Stop by the markets and see what’s fresh in Massachusetts. You can also learn more at http://www.dining.harvard.edu/flp/ag_market.html.

Congratulations, Grads!

Please accept my warmest graduation wishes to all our grads, on behalf of HUDS. It has been our pleasure to serve all of you, and a thrill to engage with so many of you, these last four years. Best of luck!