Source: NCDA&CS, 9/8/14

On Thursday, Sept. 11, the State Farmers Market will host its first-ever Seafood Day, highlighting the state’s seafood and aquaculture industries. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and feature cooking demonstrations, free samples and information.

The state’s seafood and aquaculture industries have a significant impact on local economies. According to data on wild catch from the Division of Marine Fisheries and aquaculture figures from N.C. State Univeristy, the combined value of the industry is nearly $130 million.

“Whether it’s caught off the North Carolina coast or farm-raised, you can’t beat the quality and taste of fresh North Carolina seafood,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “And shoppers will have the chance to taste that freshness at this first-time event.”

Chef Tom Armstrong of Vinnie’s Steakhouse in Raleigh will be on-hand preparing seafood dishes to sample. There also will be educational exhibits on the state’s seafood industry by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, N.C. Catch and N.C. Aquaculture Association.

The State Farmers Market is located at 1201 Agriculture St. A variety of late-summer and early-fall produce is now available, including tomatoes, corn, apples, muscadine grapes and greens. In addition, shoppers can find local meats, cheeses, wines and specialty products, as well as plants and shrubs for fall plantings. Visitors also can find unique home and garden accessories at Market Imports and enjoy a meal at one of three restaurants located on-site. More information is available at www.statefarmersmarket.org.