This time each year, most everyone starts to yearn for fresh garden produce that can only indicate that summer has arrived. Tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, fruits and flowers are found at various Farmers’ Markets throughout the country. Farmers’ Markets are a mainstay of summer, and no matter what town you live in, there is always a nearby market. In Larimer County there are six markets: Estes Park, Berthoud, Loveland and three in Fort Collins. Each year, the Colorado Department of Agriculture publishes Colorado Farm Fresh, a guide to Farmers’ Markets and roadside produce stands in Colorado. This information is available on the web (see link above) or books can be picked up at various locations.

The benefit of shopping at Farmers’ Markets is numerous. Farmers’ Markets feature high-quality, locally-grown produce that is sold at the peak of freshness. Buying produce fresh from the grower has numerous advantages—the fruits and vegetables are rich in flavor, are at their peak vitamin content and the grower is often present to answer any consumer questions, including those about pesticides. Farmers’ Markets are also a way to connect to your community by building relationships with friends and neighbors, along with Market sponsors. Often there are non-profit, public service groups at Market to answer questions you may have, or bring awareness to their cause.

This year, on Saturday, July 8, the Larimer County Farmers’ Market kicks off its 31st season. The Larimer County Market is sponsored by the Larimer County Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners and Colorado State University. The Market, one of three in Fort Collins, is located in Old Town, one block east of College Avenue, in the Oak Street parking lot, on the corner of Oak and Remington Streets. The Market runs Saturdays July 8 to October 14 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The first Market of 2006 will have activities for families, including a working bee hive and Little Sprouts Day. Little Sprouts is a new event to the Market, geared toward children age 10 and under. The events, held the first Saturday of each month, will feature environmental and horticulture topics, along with free activities for children. Little Sprouts events will run from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The Larimer County Farmers’ Market features fresh produce, plant material, breads, pastries, pottery and specialty products such as sauces, salsa, honey, dog biscuits and crafts.

Farmers’ Markets are wonderful “tourist” destinations for Colorado visitors. Not only can you plan a wonderful dinner around the fresh produce, but sample your way through unique and unusual products only found at Farmers’ Markets.

Whether you browse, buy or just take in the ambience of a Farmers’ Market, the day is never the same week to week—not only do the products change, but so do shoppers...you might just run into your old college roommate or best friend from childhood! Support local agriculture and treat your taste buds to the best tomatoes ever and visit a nearby Farmers’ Market—it will be a memorable trip!

Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.

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This page updated:  July 7, 2006