OXFORD – For centuries, local farmers and crop producers have brought their goods to market to both connect with their neighbors and sell the fruits of their labor.

Staying true to that tradition, some area markets still offer that same brand of hometown charm while seeking out new ways to keep the community engaged.

Since 2008, Mina Takahashi has been involved with organizing the Oxford Farmers Market (OFM) which is held weekly at LaFayette Park in downtown Oxford. “The Oxford Market has always been a sweet local market with local vendors, and it's just grown incrementally over the years into what you see today,” said Takahashi.

It's true that few grocery store cashiers or produce stockers will give you tips on how to cook the ingredients you buy; but farmers, ranchers, and artisans at farmers’ markets are often passionate cooks with plenty of free advice about how to cook the foods they are selling.

According to Takahashi, the focus of the OFM has always been on local producers whether it's food growers, those who are locally making craft items or community groups that have set up information tables.

“It's always been a very loose, informal market, and village mayor, Terry Stark sees LaFayette Park as an open, community space, and that's how the market has grown over the years,” added Takahashi.