Yesterday Lil and I went to the grand opening of the Easton Farmer's Market. It is located in the parking lot behind Fado's on the south east side of Easton. An impressive 50+ vendors will line the spacious lot from 3-7 pm every Thursday. Here are five things we enjoyed today: 1) Space: For the farmer's sake, I do hope there will be crowds eventually, but as a consumer I love being able to easily browse the stands without lines. Parking is also free and quick to find at Easton.

2) Entertainment: Lil had great fun picking out colors for her flower with the patient and entertaining Randy from Ballooniacs. He graciously made Lil a butterfly backpack after the flower popped. While the balloon exchange was going down, I enjoyed the quality but not overly loud live music.

3) Variety of Vendors: There was a wide selection of food makers and farmers selling the standard dip mixes and baked goods to those offering natural produce, artisanal cheese, meat and beautiful flowers. If I lived closer to Easton I could easily buy everything I needed for my family's meals, save baking staples and Snowville milk.

4) Local Matters: Columbus' premier food-centered nonprofit is playing an educational role at the market. They had both a children's 'play with your food' activity and adult 'mystery basket' demonstration on Thursday. Each week will feature a new theme to their outreach.

5) Excitement: The Easton market is well organized and staffed with energetic people. More than one vendor mentioned new seasonal products (like Ohio cherries!) they will be bringing to future markets.

I predict that this market will grow beyond expectations. We will certainly return.

Did you write a Friday Five post? If so, link below: