CitiParks Farmers Markets is gearing up to celebrate National Farmers Market Week, an important nod to the purveyors of fresh, local produce and artisan goods. From August 4th through August 10th, this year's festivities are set to mark the quarter-century milestone of the annual celebration, according to the City of Pittsburgh press release.

Special events are slated for each of CitiParks' markets, according to a bulletin released by the organization. From cooking demonstrations courtesy of Farm to Table PA at the Squirrel Hill Market to the musical stylings of beat-boxer Kid Mental at East End, Carrick, and Northside Markets, the week is filled with activities meant to enhance the usual market experience.

Highlighting more than just commerce, National Farmers Market Week is a testament to the value these markets bring to our food ecosystem. "CitiParks loves bringing the Farmers Markets to Pittsburghers! They provide a means for residents to access fresh, local goods, while helping to sustain and grow these small businesses," Kathryn Vargas, CitiParks Director, said in the CitiParks bulletin. In addition to supporting local growers, these gatherings serve as a hub for residents to bond over shared interests and cultivate new tastes — a fusion of commerce and community.

Shopping at the market can also go a long way to support those using SNAP. The Just Harvest’s Fresh Access program ensures that food stamps, along with credit and debit cards, can be used easily at the markets. "SNAP shoppers can get fresh, nutritious and local-grown food, including produce, meat, dairy, bread and baked goods, produce plants, seeds and honey," detailed the CitiParks bulletin. Furthermore, the Food Bucks initiative sweetens the pot, by giving SNAP shoppers an extra $2 to spend on fruits and veggies for every $5 they spend.