January, Tourist in Your Own Town

Every January, for about 15 years (1996-2011), the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau had a “Tourist In Your Own Town” program. Residents of the Tri-County area could pay about $50 to get a pass to 28 local plantations, parks, and other attractions. Prior to this program, business at these attractions was dead, even the weather was mild.

Though this program is long gone, I think reminding people about “Staycation” adventures close to their home is a great idea. It was a big part of my motivation for starting the Dining Guide, this blog, and its Twitter account. Expect more posts and more photos here at the blog in 2014.

Johns Island Rural Sign

Main Road Farmers Market

There’s something really beautiful about hand-painted signs advertising fresh produce.

Here’s a few that can be seen on Main Rd. close to where it meets Hwy. 17, at the Main Rd. Farmers Market. I included some signs inside the market as well:

Roadside sign beckoning drivers leaving Johns Island

Reverse of roadside sign, beckoning people coming in to Johns Island.

By Bertolini’s, no less.

Sign sitting among the red potatoes

These are the vendors for the Main Rd Farmers Market, including North Carolina, Virginia, and of course, South Carolina.

Since it is September, there are baskets and baskets of yellow peaches, and fresh apples from North Carolina.

I look forward to picking up jams featuring fruits I do not see often, i.e., rhubarb, huckleberry, and elderberry. They also carry Charleston Bees and Honey brand local honey, and sweet potato, pumpkin, and apple butter (in regular and sugar-free varieties).

Right now Fridays and Saturdays there is fresh Maine Lobster. I will have to get a shot of that sign and add it to this post.

They do not accept cards for payment, so come prepared.