Mass. Celebrates Farmers' Markets

Farmers' markets across Massachusetts are being celebrated this week as the last days of August vacation unfold.

The week kicks off Monday with the 27th annual Massachusetts Tomato Contest at Boston's City Hall Plaza.

The state's Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs, Richard Sullivan, says farmers' markets are not only festive places to find fresh, locally grown products but also help keep agricultural traditions alive.

Agriculture Commissioner Scott Soares says there are 245 farmers' markets open this summer, and many will continue indoors next winter. He says the number has more than doubled since 2005.