The Earth Markets (Souk el Ard) in Lebanon are part of an international network of farmers' markets, a project that started in Italy.

They are direct selling markets, where every vendor is a producer who sells local and seasonal food, respecting the Slow Food principles of Good, Clean and Fair. Every Earth Market is a meeting point: a place where people gather, socialize and get to know about food through direct contact with producers, events and activities.

Earth Markets are a network as they are connected to each other. They share their principles and rules, but the diversity and uniqueness of each food culture is respected. In this case, the regulations have been adapted to the Lebanese context.

This market known by the name of “Souk el Ard” is specialized in Lebanese agricultural production, without the use of any chemical fertilizers. The products available in the souk are numerous, and diversified; it goes from fruits and vegetables, to pickles, dry fruits, cooked items with meat or milk, bread and pastry, olive oil, honey, jams and sweets.

This souk counts small producers to help them grow and allows them to sell directly to the consumers healthy, natural products and traditional food without any chemicals at all. The producers can also have the opportunity to share ideas and mutual experiences. It has products that are close to organic standards and other that are certified organic, and this is why only seasonal fruits and vegetables will be available. A close surveillance on the quality of the products as well as the prices is always a must in such markets.

The aim of the program is to “rediscover and promote markets as the historical and most immediate retail outlet for farmers, which have today been overshadowed by commercial developments. Our commitment is to create a system that revitalizes local food production that is representative of its region and season and that meets the expectations of responsible and informed consumers.”

Three different Earth markets have been opened in Lebanon within the framework of a ROSS Funded project implemented by UCODEP in partnership with Slow Food Beirut. The three markets are in:

-          Tripoli, l mina, every thrursday

-          Saida, Khan el Frenj, every sunday

-          Beirut, Hamra (in the coming month)

Besides these 3 permanent markets in Lebanon, the Earth Markets participate in most of the festivals taking places in different regions of lebanon.

For this week, you'll find Souk el Ard in Ehen, Al midan, cobra building from the 7th till the 10th of August from 6pm till 2am.

Come taste the great healthy food while enjoying the lovely Ehden! 

N.B: Check the photo album

Solange El-Jbeily.