FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JULY 14, 2009

Peach dessert contest planned for annual
State Farmers Market Peach Day, Thursday, July 23

RALEIGH — Peaches, ice cream and dessert will help visitors lessen the sweltering summer heat as the State Farmers Market hosts its annual Peach Day Thursday, July 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The celebration of North Carolina’s peach industry will feature free peach and peach ice cream samples, a visit from the N.C. Peach Queen and recipes to take home. In addition, a peach dessert contest will be held for children and adults who have already perfected their favorite peach recipes.

“You know it’s summertime in North Carolina when peaches are in season,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Peach Day is a great opportunity for consumers to taste several of the more than 70 varieties of peaches grown in North Carolina.”

The contest is divided into both children and adult categories, with $175 in total prize money. Desserts can be dropped off at the State Farmers Market office between 8 and 10 a.m. before judging begins at 10 a.m.

All entries must be in throwaway containers and include the complete recipe, along with the contestant’s name, address and telephone number. Each recipe must be made with peaches grown in North Carolina and contain at least two cups of peaches. Winners will be announced at the Peach Day exhibit in the Farmers Building when the closed-door judging is complete.

The North Carolina peach season runs from the end of May through September. Shoppers currently can find many peach varieties at farmers markets and roadside stands across the state, as well as grocery stores featuring local produce. 

Peach Day is sponsored by the N.C. Peach Growers Society, N.C. Dairy Industry Promotion Committee, the State Farmers Market and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. For complete recipe contests rules, information about N.C. peaches and other peach celebrations across the state, go to www.ncpeach.com.

-pmj-