The annual Emporia Farmer’s Market Homegrown celebration saw a tremendous turnout of both market customers and watermelon lovers Saturday.
The celebration included the 21st annual ESB Financial Watermelon Contest, where kids were able to roll, eat and even spit their way to victory through a series of competitions, with the winners taking home some prizes courtesy of ESB. President Michael Black says they always look forward to the watermelon contest as it is one way the bank can give back to the community that gives to them.
Black also says it is fitting the contest happens during Homegrown, as ESB is a homegrown business.
Market Director Ginger Hartup says the market always highlights growing and shopping local, but Homegrown always helps to emphasize that point, saying when it comes to homegrown and sourced products, there is nothing better.
Hartup adds that she was happy to see a heavy turnout, as she feels there are still many people who are unaware of the quality of produce and other products available outside the grocery store.
We have a YouTube short from Saturday’s activities available here.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE NewsÂ
