This weekend

• It appears to be TomatoFest at various farmers' markets in the area, including at the Eno River Farmers Market on Margaret Lane. That will take place Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. The festival will feature more than 57 varieties of heirloom tomatoes in every size, shape and color, all harvested fresh by the market’s local farmers. Each produce vendor will feature a favorite heirloom tomato variety and offer samples, as well as special information about its growing qualities and taste characteristics. The market will provide recipes, cooking, canning and storage tips for all kinds of tomatoes. For more information, visit www.enoriverfarmersmarket.com.

Personally, I think the gap between the taste of a fresh, local tomato and one coming in from far away is unrivaled. So naturally, I like to stock up during this time of year.

• The third Jason and Jessie Jam will take place Saturday as well, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Big Barn. Dinner will be served from 6 to 7:30 p.m., with live music throughout by Good Rockin’ Sam. Ticketscan be purchased at Kuttin’ Korner, 190B Orange Grove St., or McAdams Mufflers, 1001 Efland Cedar Grove Road in Efland, or by calling 563-1063. For more information, visit www.jasonandjessiejam.webs.com or see our recent article here.