Source:  NCDA&CS, 5/26/11

 

One of the State Farmers Market’s most eagerly awaited events -- Crawfish Day -- returns Saturday, June 25, at 10 a.m. The event is being held a few weeks later this year because cooler Spring weather had slowed crawfish production.

“The crawfish boils always sell out quickly, and producers wanted to be sure to have enough crawfish on hand to accommodate consumers,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Growers expect to have more than 1,000 pounds of North Carolina crawfish available for sale, but shoppers are still encouraged to come early to ensure availability.”

The sale will be held under a large tent near the front of the market. Live crawfish will be available for $5 per pound, with a 5-pound minimum purchase and a 40-pound maximum purchase per person. Cooked crawfish will be available for $6 per pound.

Crawfish Day is sponsored by the N.C. Crawfish Growers Association. In 2010, N.C. growers raised more than 10,000 pounds of crawfish in ponds from the Piedmont to the coast.
In addition to crawfish, shoppers can enjoy a large variety of locally grown produce, bedding plants, shrubbery, garden supplies, cheeses, meats and wines available at the market.

The State Farmers Market is located off Lake Wheeler Road at Exit 297 off Interstate 40. More information on Crawfish Day and other events at the State Farmers Market can be found at www.ncagr.gov/markets or by calling (919) 733-7417.