CHAPEL HILL – It’s peak season for farmers and that means tomatoes are at their prime. This Saturday, the Carrboro Farmers’ Market is hosting its annual Tomato Day. Visitors can try more than 70 different kinds of tomatoes, from hybrid to heirloom.

“It’s always been one of the farmers’ favorite crops,” said Erin Jobe, market manager of the Carrboro Farmers’ Market. “They’ve really pushed the limits for trying new varieties and creating some of their own varieties.”

The farmers are growing heirloom tomatoes, which are created uniquely to family traditions. Jobe says the flavors heirloom tomatoes possess cannot be found in the grocery store.

“The market really has the biggest selection of tomato varieties that you can find in the area,” said Jobe.

Because of the heavy rainfall Orange County has been facing these last few weeks, Jobe says farmers may have a shortened tomato season.

“It may be a very short tomato season year, which is why it’s a great time to come get out now,” says Jobe. “They’re producing quite well, but a lot of the farmers are concerned with how long they’re going to last.”

The Farmers’ Market houses many other foods including eggplant, corn, okra, peppers, breads, cheeses, squash, zucchini, herbs, and even smoked fish and meats. Jobe says shoppers can get anything they need at the market.

“It’s been a great season so far and the tables are looking great at Market,” said Jobe. “It’s very abundant right now.”

Tomato Day will include tomato tastings, recipes, a raffle to win one of more than 30 prizes, and tomato dishes prepared by chefs from Acme and Pazzo.

With more than 35 different prizes from local businesses, winners could go home with camping rental equipment from Townsend Bertram and Company, dinner at Elaine’s, or a gift certificate to the Spotted Dog, among many other gifts.

Throughout the morning, Craig Thompson will perform his music and kids can enjoy face painting.

Tomato Day will be held at the Carrboro Town Commons, 301 West Main Street, and the event starts 8:30 AM. For more information on the Carrboro Farmers’ Market, click here.

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