The Pennsylvania Dutch Farmer's Market will unveil its newly redecorated dining room and a Taste of the Market buffet and entertainment from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. tomorrow.
The 2 1/2 -year-old market is continuing to expand its offerings, not only in the areas of food, but arts and crafts and even classes for those wishing to learn a craft.
Volunteer Nancy Boltz said tomorrow's event will include a ribbon-cutting at the new dining room, a visit from Westminster Mayor Ken Yowan and entertainment by the Old Line Statesmen Barbershop Chorus.
But it is the buffet that should be the highlight of the evening.
"February is Taste of the Market Month, with a buffet, which we've never done," she said. "The buffet is all you can eat and offers all the specialty foods from all the stalls."
Meats, vegetables, desserts and gourmet coffee will be provided, and those purchasing the buffet get a coupon for an ice cream cone afterward.
"You pay $4.99 for the buffet, we stamp your hand and you eat yourself silly the rest of the evening," Ms. Boltz said.
Children's tickets are $2.49.
Visitors will also get a page of food coupons with the buffet, good for the rest of February at the market's vendors.
The dining room, which will have extra seating for the occasion, has been redone with new tables and coverings, chairs and booths and carpeting.
The weekend will continue with a give away of a trip to Nassau at 2 p.m. Saturday that includes airfare and three nights and four days on the island.
All merchants have entry forms.
"The merchant with the most entries also gets a surprise prize," Ms. Boltz said.
"And if somebody wins who can't take the trip for whatever reason, they'll get a $500 gift certificate to the market."
Taste of the Market will continue Feb. 16-18 with food samples from all the food vendors, plus recipes.
"You can get some wonderful Amish recipes," Ms. Boltz said.
The market also has several new vendors and will offer art classes for both children and adults.
"It's our aim to make this a family market," Ms. Boltz said. "It's not a mall, it's not your traditional business."
If the Taste of the Market meets with a good response, Ms. Boltz said, it will continue.
The Pennsylvania Dutch Farmer's Market is located in the Crossroads Square Shopping Center at Routes 140 and 97 in Westminster.
Information: 876-8100.