WILKES-BARRE -- "Mondays at the Market" is a new concept for folks who've been coming to the farmers market on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre for years.
It's a new day of the week and a new concept for the farmers market in Wilkes-Barre. This year, the city is promoting all things healthy living.
"The important thing is we wanted to enhance the access to healthy foods, so by having the additional farmers market, that's where we start," explained Wilkes-Barre Department of Health Director Henry Radulski.
So while Mondays will still offer the traditional tables set up by area farmers selling local produce, there are also cooking demonstrations and booths where you can learn how to prevent illness and disease.
"We're going to teach her how to eat healthy, get rid of the sugary snacks. Out here, walking around doing a little bit of exercising, too," said Liza Charles.
There will also be exercise classes offered every Monday, so on your lunch break, you can come out to Public Square and get in a good workout or even learn how to meditate.
One of the more visual elements at the farmers market this week was the inflatable colon right on Public Square. Nurses from Geisinger were there to spread awareness about colon cancer prevention.
"Bring more public awareness to the area, and what a great venue to get people out. They're looking for fresh fruits and vegetables. They want to live a healthier, cleaner life, so why not educate them about different health issues?" said Geisinger's Joann Blackwell.
And with tick and Lyme Disease season here, folks were offered a table on that too, with the option to buy a tick removal kit.
"Highlighting health and wellness is so important for our area. I'm just thrilled to be a part of it, so I think it's a great idea," said Michele Cassetori, NEPA Lyme Resource Network.
Mondays at the Market will run every Monday through October except Labor Day and the traditional farmers market on Thursdays will run through mid-November.
