[Archived] Annual “Soil to Soul” Block Party To Benefit Old Town Farmers’ Market Double Dollar Program

For Immediate Release: September 22, 2016

The City of Alexandria invites the public to the annual “Soil to Soul” block party fundraiser on October 20, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Jackson 20 (480 King St.).  This event will benefit the Old Town Farmers’ Market SNAP/EBT Double Dollar Program.

The evening will feature seasonal food from local farms and restaurants prepared by local chefs from Jackson 20, Vermillion, Ashlar and Brabo by Robert Wiedmaier utilizing ingredients and produce available at Old Town Farmers’ Market. The evening will also feature live entertainment and a cash bar featuring a selection of Virginia wines and local beers. Several Old Town Farmers’ Market vendors will be onsite for a special night time pop-up market with treats and products for sale, including Dimitri Olive Farm, Amalthea Ridge, and Senzu Juicery. 

The SNAP/EBT Double Dollar Program, which began in 2013, assists Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients stretch their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) dollars when purchasing fresh foods at the Market. Double Dollars are bonus tokens that match every SNAP purchase up to $10 per weekly visit, allowing families to double the amount of healthy produce they are able to buy and prepare. Accepting SNAP (formerly called food stamps) at the Old Town Farmers’ Market increases food access for low-income families in Alexandria.  A portion of the proceeds from the September 29 event will help fund the Double Dollars match.

Tickets are $35 per person in advance and at the door, and include light bites from participating restaurants and vendors.  A cash bar will offer alcoholic beverages.

The Old Town Farmers’ Market, held each Saturday morning in Market Square for more than 260 years, is the oldest market in the country continuously held at the same site. The Market is a landmark destination and community gathering place that serves as a direct outlet for local growers and artisans, featuring the highest-quality produce and diverse assortment of healthy, fresh and local foods and handmade goods.  The City holds the Market every Saturday, rain or shine, from 7 a.m. to noon, in Market Square (301 King Street).

For more information about the Old Town Farmers’ Market or to purchase tickets, visit www.alexandriava.gov/OldTownFarmersMarket .

For media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.

Note:  This event was originally scheduled for September 29, but was rescheduled due to inclement weather.  The date above was updated on September 28, at 6 p.m.