EVENTS: Shop local at Audubon Park Community Market

Last night, I went to the Audubon Park Community Market and was pleasantly surprised at the large turnout for this weekly mini-arts festival/market. The Audubon Park District, (most notably the shops and restaurants along Winter Park Road), is really starting to grow as a community, particularly with events like The Friday Thing and of course, the Community Market. So if you live in the area, or just want to try something new (and free), head down to Stardust Video & Coffee every Wednesday evening from 6-10 p.m.

The market originally took over the entire Stardust parking lot, but because of the scorching summer heat and sporadic downpours, they moved half of the booth inside of Stardust. That way, you can grab a drink, a bite to eat and hear some live music while you scope out local merchandise in fully sheltered, air conditioned comfort. It also makes parking a bit easier, although you may still have to find a spot on the street. 

This week, the friendly folks at Vegetarians of Central Florida (VegCF) hosted a vegan bake sale in celebration of Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale Week, with 100% of the proceeds being donated to Pet Rescue by Judy. Besides local produce, vendors were selling scented candles and soaps, original artwork, flowers made out of water bottles, (I'm not kidding, I even bought one), and hand-crafted jewelry. Andrea from Sol.illa.quists of Sound was there selling CDs and her own funky accessories. A small stage was set up inside for an excellent acoustic duo who performed a great collection of Beatles and Elvis Costello covers.

If you're looking for some animal-free cuisine, Roots Restaurant serves up different vegan dishes each week. Check the Audubon Community Market blog for a list of menu items and vendors.

Last week's vendors included:

Local Food at the Market

AE Foods:
Locally Made Bean Dip, Hummus, and Hot Sauces

Joe’s Local Honey:
by Dansk Laboratories, also featuring Ginger’s Jellies

Feed Your Cravings By Pryor:
A Selection of Locally Created & Canned Salsas, Sauces, and Dips

 Backyard Gardening:
Local Organic Herbs and Veggie Plant Starters to Grow at Home

My Yard Farm:
Assorted Summer Vegetables and Plant Starters

Local Eggs and Hydroponic Vegetable Selections From Christmas, FL

Local Veggies, Bread, and Prepared Snacks from the Homegrown Co-op
 
The Juice Guru:
Fresh juices to enjoy at the market or by delivery.