Second Annual Autumn Harvest Feast--A Huge Success

On Sunday, October 14, a sellout crowd gathered at The Hill for the Second Annual Autumn Harvest Feast. Held by the Athens Farmers Market, the event benefitted Wholesome Wave Georgia, with the funds coming from admission and silent auction prizes. The total amount raised was $8,500, surpassing the goal of $8,000. This money allows people to double SNAP benefits at the market, which puts healthier food on the table for their families.

The venue and style of the event created a sense of community and gave participants the opportunity to spend time in the beautiful outdoors with friends, family, and neighbors. String Theory's musical performance contributed to the cheerful atmosphere.

“Besides raising a ton of money for our SNAP incentive program, our greatest success with this event was bringing our community together through good food and good people to rally around an important project," said Jan Kozak, manager of the Athens Farmers Market and assistant program director for Wholesome Wave Georgia. "Sharing a meal as a community has tremendous value in many ways."

The meal featured fresh, unique, and colorful food coming from many local sources, prepared by local chefs, including Peter Dale, The National; Dean Neff, Five and Ten; Jessica Rothacker, The Heirloom Cafe; Whitney Otawka, Farm 255; Emmanuel Stone, Harry’s Pig Shop; Josh Aaron, The Savory Spoon; Aaron Phillips, The Last Resort Grill; Sarah Dunning, Formerly of Gymnopedie; Mimi Maumus, home.made catering; and Matt Palmerlee, The Branded Butcher.

A highlight of the night was a speech made by chef Hugh Acheson. Acheson talked about the importance and benefits of fresh food over the typical frozen food dinners seen in this age of convenience. It is important to look to our local farmers for food products to support our community, he said, and receive the full nutrition benefits their food has to offer.

To see other Paige Maitland photos from the event, click here.