In the 9 years i've been living in and around Beckenham, i've noticed our wonderful little town loves a good old-fashioned fair and market. We've had seasonal fun, local school-based frivolties and overseas foodies, all of which have been a great success. There's something about Beckenham that welcomes the warm, traditional joy a fair can bring; whether it's bonding over a hot toddy, trying not to laugh as your little one screams to get off of the ride he's begged to go on for the last FOURTY-FIVE MINUTES or just a chance to sit back, enjoy and take stock for a wee while. On Saturday 18th May, Market On The Green took place, on the, aherm, green. This time round Beckenham was host to local produce and craft Kent-based companies, including some scrummy food and drink, on stage entertainment, Morris dancers, stilt walkers and fairground rides. The aromas flowing from the food stalls were mouth-wateringly tempting from the moment i stepped off of the bus and made my way to the Green. I had my two kids and was a little concerned with the sheer amount of people i could see streaming in and out of the area, however, everything was superbly placed that customer flow was very easy. We decided to have a good old look round before deciding what to purchase, as there was so much to choose from and see. The weather was lovely, warm yet a little overcast to take the edge off. The trees had little pullovers in case they got chilly. Quite thoughtful of the organisers! Whilst wandering around i bumped into a few friends, my parents and the gorgeous Lynda from Beckenham's very own award-winning hair salon, Baccarat. Everyone had a smile on their face and were enjoying the delights that these great local businesses were offering us under brightly coloured canopys and tempting tasters. After buying some delectable cupcakes from Munchkin Kitchen, we headed over to the Howards Of Kent stall. I have known Howards Of Kent's very own Vodka Lady on Twitter for some time yet have always missed her at tweetups and other local markets. It was really lovely to finally touch base with her, have a little natter (as the stall was extremely busy, rightly so!) and pick up some absolutely delicious vodka. The lovely Vodka Lady herself says 'They say if life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Well life gave me lemons but I decided to make Limoncello instead and it was delicious!'. Believe me, it is delicious. I was lucky enough to win a small sampler of this tastebud tingling vodka over on Facebook. The difference between shop bought 'flavoured Vodkas' and Howards Of Kent vodka based fruit drinks is immense. All fruits used are fresh and natural, no hidden nasties, it makes such a difference. The intense flavours and richness of their drinks are just something else. Whilst picking up my Limoncello win, i bought a Damson too. I am now
excitedly looking forward to catching them at another fair soon to make some more purchases! I have since used about a third of the bottle in shot form, carbonated drinks and fresh fruit juice. I highly recommend Howards Of Kent as a great local, individual company selling something naturally naughty, which will genuinely make you turn your head away from any other Vodka based drink. Myself and my boys had a great afternoon at Market On The Green in Beckenham. I urge you to keep a look out for any other events happening here and to pop along. You can meet some great people, buy some fantastic products and, most importantly, see trees wearing pullovers.
1 Comment
6/3/2013 01:18:14 am
A great blog as always Julie - particularly liking the references to the brightly-clad trees! Lovely to bump into you and to meet the little one. Totally agree on the (almost too good) loveliness of the wonderful @vodka_lady 's fruit vodkas and I apologise for pinching her last bottle of limoncello out of your clutches :o) It was wonderful to witness the growing community spirit that exists in this lovely little town. Bravo Beckenham!
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Who is Julie?30 something, mother of two gorgeous boys, lover of one gorgeous husband, perpetually living in a dream world full of wine, chocolate and artsy crafty things. Archives
February 2018
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