Local flair and flavor.

For some people, the Greater Belhaven Market is an eclectic cultural event. For others, it's a great way to find fresh produce and local crafts.

Virgi Lindsay, executive director of the Greater Belhaven Foundation, likes to think of the Greater Belhaven Market as a very successful business incubator.

The market, located in the parking lot of the historic McDade's (formerly "Jitney 14") grocery store on Fortification Street in Jackson, hosts specialty food producers, local farmers, artisans, and craftspeople from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday from April to December.

Market products vary each week and include "just-picked," organically-grown produce; baked breads and desserts; gourmet food items; and handcrafted gifts and art.

"The market has succeeded in every way we hoped it would," Lindsay explained. "We particularly wanted it to be a way for local vendors to establish themselves, and there are plenty of success stories."

Today the market includes a base of over 150 vendors, of which any 30 to 40 regularly participate on a given Saturday, according to market director and vendor Kay Olliver. In addition to hosting vendors, the market often offers live music, attracting neighborhood residents and families.

The market also holds annual events such as the 5K Run to the Market, the Hot Stuff Salsa Contest, and the Market Chili Cook-off. For more information on the Greater Belhaven Market, call 601/506-2848 or visit www.greaterbelhaven.com.--A.S.M.