Salt marshes, the lure of wild ponies and a downtown area that has the charm of a Hallmark movie. Chincoteague Island is a love letter to the Eastern Shore of Virginia. As you arrive on island, you can go straight onto Maddox Boulevard, the main thoroughfare that connects Chincoteague to Assateague Island. And along that road, a market has planted roots, offering everything you need and more.
Whiteraven's Nest Farmers Market was established in 2014 by Burke and Kimberly Landon. Two years ago, they opened their family owned and operated market on Chincoteague Island. Whether you are local, visiting for the day, or have an extended trip planned, Whiteraven's Nest has everything you need.
Between their own harvest, and those of local farmers, their offerings are extensive. From an abundance of fresh, local seafood, produce, meats and more, you can feed your family with quality ingredients straight from the farmers market. And their specialty? Crab cakes!
We know how to make a crab cake, and we know how to make 'em good. I've got a lot of repeat customers.
- Burke Landon
(Burke, with his future son-in-law, Shane Leonetti)
Burke grew up on Tangier Island, and now resides just off Chincoteague with his family. After having back surgery, they had to figure out how to continue the business without it being too much for him to handle. So they continue to offer what they have raised or grown on their own farm, in addition to working with farmers that have the same standards as them.
We deal with mainly local farmers at the store, and we sell it for them. It helps them out, it helps us out. So far, so good.
- Burke Landon
The market will be open until Christmas Eve, with a barnyard holiday celebration happening November 27th from noon to 3 pm. The Chincoteague Pony Drill Team will be there, along with other guests to kick off the season. Burke and his family have big plans for the market next year that will take their service to a whole new level. But, I won't ruin the surprise. You'll just have to plan a visit and see for yourself. During the winter, Burke and his wife plan to visit Key West for a quick get-away before the next season starts. But, he's still sprinkling in some business during the trip.
We're gonna touch base with some of the people we deal with, and have a good time in between.
- Burke Landon
Whiteraven's Nest Farmers Market is a beloved spot. During my visit, locals were coming and going, picking up groceries, and chatting with Burke and Shane. I could have stayed the entire afternoon, shooting the breeze with them. They're hospitable, knowledgeable, and back their products. I grabbed a handful of goodies as I was passing through, including the apple cider, horseradish mustard, and a fresh apple to snack on at the beach. Everything was delicious.
Chincoteague is a second home to me. I've been visiting the island for over thirty years with my family and dear friends. I've seen the changes, admired it's traditions, and look forward to many more visits. Whiteraven's Nest Farmers Market is now a must stop every time I go.
For more details on Whiteraven's Next Farmers Market, and to check out their hours, visit www.whiteravensnest.com or at www.facebook.com/whiteravensnestVA/
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