4th Annual Tomato Fest Set to Thrill Despite Severe Drought

Despite the ongoing severe drought in Rockingham County, the Harrisonburg Farmers Market is moving forward with its much-anticipated 4th Annual Tomato Fest. This vibrant celebration of all things tomato will take place on Saturday, August 31, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Turner Pavilion.

The U.S. Drought Monitor has classified the current drought as extreme, noting that June was the fourth driest on record for the region in the past 130 years. Rainfall was 2.57 inches below normal, putting immense pressure on local agriculture. However, the community’s spirit remains unshaken as the festival aims to bring together farmers, gardeners, and tomato lovers to celebrate the resilience of local produce.

A Celebration of Tomatoes

Hannah Johnson (Hickory Hill Farm) 2023 Tomato Winner

Tomato Fest, first established in 2020, has quickly become a beloved event in the area. The festival is packed with activities highlighting the diversity and flavor of locally grown tomatoes. Attendees can look forward to a chef demonstration by SJ Starr of the Joshua Wilton House bar, who will showcase tomato mocktails. There will be tomato tastings, a “Curiosity Corner” for kids led by the Central Shenandoah Valley Master Gardeners, and a contest to find the most beautiful tomato, open to both vendors and the community.

One of the festival’s highlights is the abundance of heirloom tomatoes on display. These special varieties, cherished for their rich flavors, unique shapes, and vibrant colors, are not typically found in grocery stores. Visitors can expect to find heirloom varieties like:

• Blosser: A deep red, large, juicy tomato with a robust, old-fashioned flavor.
• Lydia’s Orange: Bright orange tomatoes with a sweet, fruity taste, perfect for salads and salsas.
• Pineapple: Yellow and red marbled tomatoes with a sweet, citrusy flavor, ideal for fresh eating.
• Pink Berkley Tie Dye: These striking pink and green striped tomatoes have a sweet, tangy taste, perfect for showcasing in fresh dishes.
• Katy Heart: Heart-shaped, meaty tomatoes with a rich, sweet flavor.
• Carbon: Deep, dark tomatoes known for their complex, smoky flavor, great for sauces and salsas.

Drought Survival Tips for Tomato Lovers

The ongoing drought presents challenges, but there are effective ways to grow tomatoes successfully, even under these harsh conditions. Festival attendees can learn about drought-resistant tomato varieties and receive tips such as:

• Plant Early: Earlier planting means tomatoes ripen with less water.
• Choose Determinate Varieties: These varieties need less water, often resulting in sweeter tomatoes.
• Deep Planting: Planting tomatoes deep helps them access moisture from winter rains.
• Use Mulch: Mulching is an effective way to conserve soil moisture.
• Grow Smaller Varieties: These require less water.
• Homegrown Tomatoes: Growing your tomatoes reduces the water needed compared to commercially grown ones.

Supporting Local Farmers

The Tomato Fest also provides an opportunity to support local farmers who have faced challenges due to the drought. Many vendors have had to adapt to the harsh conditions. For instance, North Mountain Produce noticed that their tomatoes were fruited two weeks earlier than usual due to the heat, though this may shorten the season. Wood’s Edge has managed to sustain its crop thanks to drip irrigation from a well, while Ulmer’s Mountain View Farm has had to pump significant amounts of water to maintain its tomato crop. Unfortunately, Glen Eco reported that deer have been eating the tops off many of their plants, reducing their overall yield.

Despite these challenges, the Harrisonburg Farmers Market continues to be a hub for fresh, locally produced goods. Customers using SNAP/EBT can use the Virginia Fresh Match program, which doubles their benefits up to $30 for fruits and vegetables.

Tomato Fest is more than just a celebration; it’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of local farmers and the community. Join us at Turner Pavilion to support our local farmers, taste delicious tomatoes, and enjoy a day of fun and learning. For more details, visit www.harrisonburgfarmersmarket.com or check out the Harrisonburg Farmers’ Market on Facebook and Instagram.

Market Hours:

• Spring/Summer/Fall Market: Tuesdays & Saturdays, 8 AM to 1 PM (April – Thanksgiving)
• Sunset Market: Every third Thursday, 5 PM to 8 PM (June – September)
• Holiday Market: First three Saturdays in December, 9 AM to 12 PM
• Winter Market: Saturdays, 9 AM to 1 PM (January – March)

Since 1979, the Harrisonburg Farmers Market has connected the community with fresh, nutritious, locally produced goods and high-quality crafts. It serves as a crucial hub for local entrepreneurship, supporting sustainable practices and environmental stewardship in partnership with Harrisonburg Public Works and the Climate Action Alliance of the Valley.