The recognition of the benefits of locally grown foods in terms of superior flavor, food safety and availability of heritage vegetable varieties has caused the popularity of Farmers Markets to steadily increase, especially in urban and sub-urban areas. Jessamine County enjoys two vibrant and growing Farmers Markets, the long-running Wilmore Market and the Nicholasville Farmers Market. The two Farmers Markets are filling a growing demand for locally-grown, health and nutritious vegetable, fruit, meat and baked products.

A KDA Ag. Development Grant was submitted in the names of both the Wilmore and Nicholasville Farmers Markets. The Farm to Fork Dinner was promoted through both Farmers Market Facebook pages, the Jessamine County Chamber of Commerce website, the Jessamine County Extension Service website and Facebook pages and promotion in-person at the two Farmers Markets. The Jessamine County ANR, FCS and 4-H Youth Development Agents participated in the planning process and contributed paper products and other support.

The Jessamine County Farm to Fork Dinner was held on July 27th at the Wilmore City Municipal Center. A total of 72 meal tickets were sold, 12 tables were sponsors, a number of silent auction items were donated by Farmers Market vendors and community members. 22 vendors from the two Farmers Markets set up displays and marketed their products. A delicious meal was served, prepared by a local caterer, that featured locally grown fruit, vegetables and meat. The Farm to Fork Dinner was a great success and highlighted the many unique and healthy products available at the Nicholasville and Wilmore Farmers Markets.