Enjoy a feast of more than 50 delicious summer food and beverage samples from the Original Farmers Market’s grocery, restaurant and specialty food merchants at the 9th annual “Taste of Farmers Market” on Tuesday, July 18 from 5 to 9 p.m.

(photo courtesy of the Original Farmers Market)

The Market is partnering again with the local nonprofit First-In Fire Foundation and firefighters from Stations 61 and 29, in the LAFD’s Battalions 18 and 11, to offer samples of firehouse chili. Firefighters/chefs from Station 61 and 29 will offer samples of meat and vegetarian firehouse chili, and will hold a fire safety demonstration with Wilshire the Fire Dog. A fire truck will also be parked on-site, and information and activities will be available.

This year’s event supports the First-In Fire Foundation and the LAFD’s youth leadership programs and projects at local fire stations, including the Fire Cadet Program and the new Girl’s Fire Training Camp. The Fire Cadet Program teaches young men and women about careers in firefighting and emergency medical services. Cadets, who range in age from 14-20 years old, participate in fire department training, meetings and “ride-alongs” in fire department vehicles. The LAFD Girl’s Fire Training Camp teaches teens and young women about what it takes to become firefighters.

“Taste of Farmers Market is one of our biggest and most special events of the year, as guests are able to sample the wide variety of cuisines we offer from all over the world,” said Ilysha Buss, marketing director for the Original Farmers Market. “Last year’s inaugural partnership with the First-In Fire Foundation was a huge hit, and we are thrilled to be working with them again, this time with a special focus on youth programs. The Market is Los Angeles’ quintessential family-friendly gathering place, which makes this a perfect match for this year’s event.”

Lyn MacEwen Cohen, president of the First-In Fire Foundation, commended the Market and owner A.F. Gilmore Company for their support.

“It’s always special to give back to the local community,” Cohen said. “What better place to enjoy old fashioned hospitality and the simple pleasure of sampling tasty firehouse chili cooked and served by our friendly local ‘fire chefs?’ And, what better place to celebrate Los Angeles’ youth than at one of the city’s most iconic destinations? Taste of Farmers Market is smokin’ hot and so much fun.”

This year’s menu will include a variety of tastes for both meat-lovers and vegetarians as well as offerings from the Market’s newest merchants – Nonna’s Empanadas, Michelina Artisan Boulanger and Local Ice.

Advance adult tickets are $35; $40 at the door, with a special $10 children’s ticket offering 10 tastes for those 10 and under. Adult tickets include two drink tickets for beer and wine samples and non-alcoholic beverages.

The original Farmers Market is located at 6333 W. Third St. Tickets are available at the Market’s office, on the second level above Gate One, or by visiting farmersmarketla.com.