As you enter the small town of Damascus, Virginia, you can’t help but feel its unique vibe. It just feels good and looks good. The town is clean and tidy, clearly well taken care of. As you drive in, you immediately notice its murals, a big red train caboose, and inviting parks. Damascus, or as one resident affectionately called it, “the Holy City of Damascus,” is a quaint town nestled on the banks of the South Fork of the Holston River, sometimes referred to as Laurel Creek.
Damascus: More Than a Trail Town
Driving through town, it’s evident that tourism is vital here. You’ll spot numerous B&Bs, vacation rentals, and hotels. Damascus thrives on its prime location, serving as a gateway for seven famous hiking trails: the Virginia Creeper Trail, the Appalachian Trail, the Iron Mountain Trail, the Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route, the TransAmerica Bicycle Route, and the Crooked Road are all accessible from town. Plus, Damascus sits at the western edge of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. This makes it an incredibly popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers from all over the world.
But there’s so much more to Damascus. Even though locals proudly call it “Trail Town U.S.A.,” I quickly discovered it offers something deeper, a quality you might not realize until you spend time with the residents. There’s a palpable feeling here, one of those things you truly understand only after uncovering more about the place.
The Origins of the Damascus Vibe
Beyond its proximity to fantastic recreation areas, two key elements contribute to Damascus’s profoundly positive vibe: the people are incredibly nice and happy, and they possess a remarkable determination when it comes to their town.
Let me explain: these are some of the warmest people I’ve encountered since I arrived in Appalachia, and that warmth feels absolutely genuine. After speaking with many residents, I’m positive their happiness stems from the quality of life here—it’s evident and laid-back. People aren’t stressed out like they are in so many other places. With only around 787 residents, this small community seems filled with good-natured individuals who all appear to know each other.
The other thing I mentioned is their determination. I mean, they are truly determined to make this town a special place and to overcome adversity. Coming from a small town myself, I know that adversity sometimes serves to build community. In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Damascus and the surrounding area, impacting some of the very trails their economy relies on. Over a dozen homes in Damascus were destroyed, sections of US-58 and US-91 were washed out, and many town buildings were flooded. The upper 17 miles of the Creeper Trail were destroyed, and over 400 miles of the Appalachian Trail were closed. Yet, the residents of this town have been rapidly working to restore the place, repair the damage, and move forward.
That’s precisely why this Farmers Market is so important.
I spoke with Town Manager Chris Bell about the Farmers Market and its significance. He shared his perspective: “Damascus is still recovering from Helene in many ways, but it’s time to get the word out that Damascus is open. The Creeper Trail is open [from Damascus to Abingdon], lodging is open—we want people to come to Damascus and enjoy what we have to offer.”
I then asked Mr. Bell, “How does the Farmers Market play into this?” He responded, “Its incredibly important. So much so that we moved it from its former location to Main Street to give it more visibility and so it would create a fun atmosphere and help Damascus get back to being a thriving community. We also wanted to eliminate competition with other events, so we moved the time to Thursdays, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.” This Farmers Market truly feels like a spark of life for a community that faced so much damage.
I also had the opportunity to speak with Market Manager Donna Foltz, who is responsible for starting and operating the market on behalf of the Town of Damascus. She was a fount of information about the market, the town, and the history of the Trails. I saw her selling commemorative T-shirts with artwork related to Damascus and the Trails, and she was handing out magazines and brochures about the many activities and attractions in the area.
Getting to Know the Vendors
Bethel Produce
My first stop was with the enthusiastic and informative Gloria Basse, the dedicated owner of Bethel Produce, a well-regarded local business nestled in Abingdon, Virginia. Known for her hands-on approach and commitment to fresh, high-quality offerings, Gloria has cultivated Bethel Produce into a community staple. Her passion for providing fresh, local goods is clear in the diverse array of fruits, vegetables, and other farm-fresh items she offers, drawing customers from Abingdon and the surrounding areas who appreciate the direct connection to their food source and the friendly, knowledgeable service she and her team provide.
I was particularly interested to learn that farming and gardening have long been in her blood. She hails from Wisconsin, where she worked on dairy farms in her early years, and she earned her degree in Agribusiness.
I asked her a few questions:
- AC: “What made you move to the area?” GB: “I came for the beauty of the area and the extra two months of growing season here.”
- AC: “What do you do in the off-season?” GB: “I am a consultant on the subjects of Agribusiness and Animal Health.”
When I asked her about her farming philosophy, she told me that she started with regular gardening but soon discovered she grew far more produce than she could use. That’s when she realized the need to participate in farmers markets like this one. She also shared that her main advocacy is the preservation of heritage livestock breeds.
Big Jake’s Garden
I spent some time chatting with Jake Caldwell from Big Jake’s Garden. It turns out that Jake is as dedicated to farming and growing as anyone I’ve met. He started planting vegetables as a kid and has continued ever since.
Big Jake’s Garden, a retail shop in Abingdon, Virginia, specializes in providing everything needed for growing, harvesting, and even infusing plants. They offer a comprehensive range of products for all aspects of gardening, from grow tents, lighting, and hydroponic systems, to various nutrients and soils for cultivation, and even equipment for harvesting crops to ensure maximum yield. Beyond just products, Big Jake’s Garden also focuses on education, offering classes and resources to help both novice and experienced gardeners succeed. They are particularly enthusiastic about “infusing,” providing tools and guidance for making plant-infused oils for culinary and other applications. Their physical location is in Abingdon, VA, and they are excited to serve the local community with their expertise and wide selection of gardening supplies.
I asked Jake what he does when he’s not busy with the garden. He told me he’s the Plant Inspector for Southwestern Virginia with the Department of Agriculture.
Solum Bonum
This was a vendor I definitely wanted to meet. I had seen the name online when researching the Damascus Farmers Market and just had to know what it meant. I wasn’t at all disappointed! I spoke with owner Ashley McKelvey and posed that very question. She explained that it’s Latin and carries two meanings. The first: “Good Dirt,” though she clarified it truly means “Good Soil.” The second meaning is: “Greatest of all goods.” I can’t help but think it’s a perfect name for a business like hers for both reasons.
The first thing that caught my eye at her table was an odd plant I hadn’t seen before. It was a green and red leafy plant that I might have guessed was a variety of lettuce or something similar. It turns out it’s Coleus, an herb that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries to treat various health issues and to support heart health, respiratory issues, digestion, eye health, and thyroid function, and it’s also an antioxidant.
Solum Bonum also grows and sells kales, Swiss Chard, Suhyo Dragon Cucumbers, fennel bulbs, fresh herbs, Genovese zucchini, and more. They had a couple of tasting trays with beautiful Heirloom Tomatoes served with a nice herb dressing and some seasoned Natascha Potatoes. They were absolutely amazing!
One thing Ashley really wanted to emphasize is her use of no-till and no-intervention methods. This prompted me to include a description of these methods here:
No-till and no-intervention farming represent approaches that prioritize minimizing human disturbance to the agricultural ecosystem, aiming to mimic natural processes. No-till farming, also known as zero tillage or direct drilling, involves planting crops directly into the soil without plowing or extensive mechanical disturbance. Instead, crop residues are left on the soil surface, acting as a protective mulch. This method helps preserve soil structure, reduce erosion, increase organic matter, enhance water infiltration, and foster beneficial soil life. While no-till primarily focuses on soil disturbance, it can be combined with other practices like cover cropping and crop rotation for improved results.
No-intervention farming, often associated with “natural farming” or some forms of permaculture, takes this philosophy further by aiming for minimal human interference beyond simply planting and harvesting. This approach generally avoids tilling, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and even extensive weeding or pruning. The idea is that nature, if left largely undisturbed, will create a balanced and productive ecosystem. It relies on natural processes like decomposition, nutrient cycling, and biological pest control to maintain soil fertility and plant health, with the farmer observing and subtly guiding rather than actively manipulating the environment.
Wyndale Gardens, Abingdon, VA
I next had the pleasure of speaking with Becky Ramsey, Owner of Wyndale Gardens. I was incredibly interested not just in what they were selling at the market, but how they were producing it. They have a 34-acre farm in Abingdon, VA, and their business card proudly lists three things: Agritourism, Aquaponics, and Apiary. Becky shared some incredibly exciting and cool things about their aquaponics. I was so impressed that I’m planning to follow up with her for a deep dive article in our science section!
The agritourism aspect of their business invites people to tour the farm, meet alpacas and Highland cows, and walk through their lavender and wildflower fields. Visitors can also observe and learn about the aquaponics operation and their apiary, where they even grow Tilapia (yes, in Virginia! Who would have thought?!). Their apiary produces honey that is sold directly.
Becky mentioned that she’s a big believer in partnerships with local businesses and people, and she’s done a wonderful job. They produce proprietary infused oils in conjunction with Abingdon Olive Oil Company. They also supply honey to Sweetbay Brewing Company to make a Honey Beer.
Everything at Wyndale Gardens is done with an eye on sustainability and environmental soundness. Look for more about this fascinating operation, because I will definitely be writing more. Wyndale is a USDA GAP Certified Farm, meaning they use Good Agricultural Practices. They are inspected to ensure that they grow and pack their produce in ways that minimize the possibility of microbial food safety hazards.
They also partner with Bristol City Schools, Tazewell Schools, and Washington County Schools to help teach about these farm practices, and they supply produce to Food City.
Penny’s Petals
Next, I ran into Charlie and Penny Watts, owners of Penny’s Petals Farm in Elizabethton, TN.
This charming operation specializes in both the beauty of cut flowers and the bounty of select produce, all cultivated with dedication and care. Penny’s Petals is known for its “specialty and heirloom cut flowers,” offering a diverse array of blooms that likely range from classic favorites to unique, vintage varieties, perfect for arrangements, events, and simply brightening any space.
Beyond their vibrant floral offerings, Penny’s Petals Farm also cultivates a small variety of produce, contributing to the local food scene. While specific produce items may vary seasonally, they are known to grow blueberries, carrots, eggplant, herbs, okra, peppers, pumpkins, tomatillos, and tomatoes. Their commitment to local agriculture extends to their sales methods, participating in CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture), farmers’ markets in both Johnson County and Elizabethton, and even wholesale opportunities. In addition to their horticulture, the farm also maintains a pasture where they breed Katahdin sheep and care for their beloved donkey, Jake, adding a charming livestock component to their diverse operations.
When the growing season winds down, Penny’s Petals Farm creatively shifts its focus to crafting unique, handcrafted items. They transform their dried flowers into beautiful products by blending them with wood and epoxy to create coasters, charcuterie boards, and serving trays. This ingenuity allows them to extend the life and beauty of their floral harvest, offering customers year-round access to their farm’s essence. Furthermore, they craft solid wood cutting boards, designed to be durable and passed down through generations, showcasing their dedication to quality and craftsmanship in all their endeavors.
J&J Farm
While I didn’t get much time to talk with this farmer because he was busy, I definitely wanted to mention him here and possibly do more of an interview next time. He had a variety of produce: potatoes, cabbage, onions, and I saw a small green plant with what looked like the tips of the leaves cut off. Naturally, I asked what it was. It seemed it was a tobacco plant, which I have never seen at a Farmers Market!
Other Notable Vendors
One of the fun things about Farmers Markets is the variety of offerings from non-farmer vendors and their unique stories.
Bad Bagel Pet Emporium
Now, I don’t mean ‘Bad Bagel’ literally; Bagels, it seems, is the owner’s dog! I met with Bill and his son, Benjamin, to talk about their specialty dog products. Bad Bagel Pet Emporium is a unique pet supply store located in Bristol, Virginia. This emporium caters to pet owners seeking high-quality and often distinctive products for their beloved animals. They offer a diverse range of items, with a particular emphasis on treats, including their own “Bad Bagel” brand of jerky made from various proteins like chicken, cow heart, pig heart, cow liver, and pig liver. Beyond their signature treats, customers can find other popular pet chews like Himalayan Yak Cheese Chews, as well as a selection of dog food and other pet essentials.
The Emporium also extends its offerings to include “People Stuff,” such as Bad Bagel branded T-shirts and tote bags, indicating a strong brand identity that resonates with their customer base. They even carry pet accessories like Bad Bagel bandanas. This variety suggests that Bad Bagel Pet Emporium aims to be a comprehensive stop for pet owners, providing not only nutritional needs but also fun and functional items, all while cultivating a distinct brand experience from their Damascus, VA location at 124 E. Laurel Ave Damascus, Virginia 24236.
Blair’s Ware
This young artist is inspired by many things: animals, antique jewelry, nature and landscapes, and vintage items. My eye was immediately drawn to her eclectic style, and when I got closer, I realized it wasn’t just one thing that caught my attention; it was a whole package of intriguing items. Blair Watson is clearly happy and content in the creative process. She told me she doesn’t much enjoy manufacturing. She shared that she had been making beautiful candles for a while, but it started to feel like manufacturing and wasn’t satisfying for her. For Blair, it’s the ability to be left free to immerse herself in her creative process, and when she does, it truly shows. There isn’t anything she has on display that isn’t deeply interesting, and when she mentions some of the items and what she created them from, it just gets even more impressive. Blair is a true artist who thrives on her inspiration. Her art is beautiful, humorous, and yes, wonderfully odd!
Blair grew up in the area but left for college, where she studied wood and metal working and furniture design at Virginia Commonwealth University.
R&F Leather
Sitting at this table were Randall Davis, Faye Davis, and Norma. They offer a variety of handmade leather goods, including wallets, knife sheaths, lighter cases, and ponytail holders. I asked them who the leather worker was, and Randall replied that it was both of them. That naturally led to my next question. I asked Randall when he started doing leatherwork. He replied that he learned it when he was about 15. Naturally, I assumed that Faye had learned the craft from Randall, but Randall quickly made sure to let me know that Faye had been doing it first! He added that they had known each other that long and had been together for 50 years. These leather pieces are beautiful, practical, and of excellent quality.
Bad Dog Good Dog Designs
I found it ironic that this vendor was directly behind Bad Bagel, since Bagel was the owner’s dog! Good Dog Bad Dog makes all kinds of personalized items, laser-engraved items, and apparel. They have leather key chains, tumblers, 3D printed items, metal and wood art, and something I’d never seen before: Straw Toppers. Yes, they are whimsical characters designed to go over your straw when you’re drinking out of your cup. What will they think of next?
This business started when the owner, Punkie Louthen, acquired a vinyl cutter, and from there, it just took off. It quickly expanded into several new media, and now it’s a true force of nature.
4 Stitches & Giggles
This couple, Melanie and Keith Holm, creates embroidered products. When I asked how the whole thing started, Keith and Melanie mentioned that when they retired, Melanie’s hobby simply got out of control. They offer embroidered clothing items, dish towels, and other items. One of the stand-out things about this couple is their line of “Appalachia Strong” branded items. The image changes every so often, but it’s always a tree, which Melanie said symbolized growth and recovery. Sometimes it’s a tree with butterflies, sometimes a different kind of tree with birds in it. The important thing about this symbol is its connection to growth and recovery, directly addressing the disastrous Hurricane Helene that plagued the community in September 2024. With that in mind, every month, the proceeds from the sale of any Appalachian Strong merchandise go directly in support of community members in need of assistance. I don’t know about you, but that’s truly beautiful.
The Heartbeat of the Market: Music
Seven Strangers
Okay, no Farmers Market is complete without some music, and Damascus definitely delivered! It was awesome. One of the things that makes it awesome is that the members of this group were genuinely not sure what to make of themselves. When I asked the name of their group, they seemed to agree on one thing: they hadn’t completely figured that out! They were billed as the “Seven Strangers.” When I inquired about that, they explained that each of them had an interest in making music but didn’t know each other. It was only at a party at a mutual friend’s house that they finally got together and formed a jam session. They jammed at each other’s homes for a while until Donna, the Manager of the Farmers Market, suggested they move their jam to the market, so they did. It’s amazing, because their music is as organic as the produce sold at the market. They have a sound that they call “unpracticed.” I call it pure and natural. These folks aren’t trying too hard; they’re simply making beautiful music sweetly. I encourage everyone to go hang out with them. I promise that experience alone would be worth going to the Farmers Market in Damascus and lingering for the evening.
By the way, they are looking for a Fiddler and a Banjo Player to join them!
I think its important to focus on the lyrics that are being sung by these amazing young musicians. They go directly to the subject of this article and they exemplify farming in general along with the specific spirit of farmers we met today. Lyrics are John Denver’s Garden Song, 1979.
Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground
Inch by inch, row by row
Someone bless these seeds I sow
Someone warm them from below
Till the rain comes tumblin’ down
Pullin’ weeds and pickin’ stones
Man is made of dreams and bones
Feel the need to grow my own
‘Cause the time is close at hand
Rainful rain, sun and rain
Find my way in nature’s chain
Tune my body and my brain
To the music from the land
Plant your rows straight and long
Temper them with prayer and song
Mother Earth will make you strong
If you give her love and care
Old crow watchin’ hungrily
From his perch in yonder tree
In my garden I’m as free
As that feathered thief up there
Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground
An inch by inch, row by row
Someone bless these seeds I sow
Someone warm them from below
Till the rain comes tumblin’ down
As you can see, I am enthusiastic about this market and telling its story. It’s a rare case when you go someplace and feel a vibe that’s truly special. This wasn’t the biggest Farmers Market I have been to; in fact, it’s small compared to most. However, in terms of connecting, feeling welcome, finding interesting things that few people are doing, and enjoying honest, beautiful expressions of art from genuinely good folks, this market feels huge and is a must-attend event in my opinion.
