Earth’s Bounty, an outdoor farmer’s market, took place Saturday at Singing Brakeman Park in downtown Meridian.

The market celebrated autumn harvest with Halloween crafts for children and lots of fresh seasonal produce for adults.

Children were able to decorate Halloween masks and other pumpkin-themed crafts, provided by the Meridian Arts Council and the Meridian High School Honors Society. Some even dressed up in Halloween costumes for the event. Bounce houses were also available.

“I come to Earth’s Bounty every time they have it, I love listening to the different singers,” said 10-year-old Cameron Burchfield.

“It’s a great source of entertainment and a way to stock up on great baked goods,” said Tina Leister, who has been attending Earth’s Bounty for more than two years.

Leister was not exaggerating. Vendors from all over the state brought an array of homemade goods, with some local favorites like Mr. Mike’s Frozen Yogurt of Newton.

Linda Beckham, who owns Linda’s Homemade Goodies, had a lineup of fresh jams, relishes, breads, and hand pies.

“I retired from public work, and started making pepper relish for friends until someone suggested I go to the farmer’s market,” she said. “It just keeps growing every year. I never miss Earth’s Bounty.”

Many customers knew Beckham by name and inquired about her famous tea cakes.

T-Broke Honey sold honey by the quarts, and Mathis Peaches and Produce sold fresh tomatoes and squash.

The Greater Meridian Health Clinic was available for free health screenings and free teeth cleanings for children. The Mississippi Farm Bureau brought a miniature cotton gin and provided demonstrations.

Right beside Earth’s Bounty, the Meridian Art Walk took place. The two events usually coincide together in an effort to provide a one-stop shop for all things local.

“Our main goal is to promote the city,” said Cary Haycox, a volunteer for the walk. “We really want to keep our small town alive, and support local artists as much as possible.”

Canvas art, pottery, and hand crafted jewelry were available for purchase, and some artists created live paintings, allowing people to watch the artist at work.

“It’s great to be able to cross promote and keep people aware of what the city has to offer,” said Theresa Gonzales, who helps promote the walk.

“Staying close like this makes it easier for people. People can start at Earth’s Bounty and just walk down Front Street into downtown and they will encounter lots of great events and restaurants.”