We are indeed much more than what we eat, but what we eat can nevertheless help us to be much more than what we are.”
— Adelle Davis (1904-1974)

Farmers’ markets across the country are playing a role in reforming the way that people think about and buy produce. Instead of grabbing the essentials at the grocery store while gabbing on the phone, more and more people are heading to the market and taking their time in choosing fresh produce that comes straight from the hands of those who grow and pick it.

In addition to getting the freshest produce available, shopping for fruits and veggies at your local farmers’ market means that your lettuce and legumes didn’t have to travel across the country to get to your table. And if you ride a bike to the market or put one foot in front of the other until you reach the produce, you’re saving fossil fuels and further reducing the carbon footprint of each fresh veggie you cook.

And if all that weren’t enough, farmers’ markets have much more than produce to offer. If you head to the market on a Saturday morning, you find yourself surrounded by not only amazing local produce, delicious prepared food from local vendors, and art and craft items from local artisans, but you find yourself in the midst of a community. Like-minded individuals — your neighbors, leaders and friends — are at the market, too. Conversations abound in between eating, choosing goods and produce, and soaking up the sun.

Below is the information you need about the Boulder Farmers’ Market and the Longmont Farmers’ Market. We hope that if you’ve never been to your local farmers’ market that you’ll be inspired to go check out the fun and see for yourself what an amazing community exists just down the street. And if you’ve been before, keep going. Show the newbies what it’s all about. In fact, bring a friend who’s never been. There’s no better way to support the local economy, the local farmers and the community in which you live, all in a few fun-filled hours.

Boulder Farmers’ Market
Location: The open-air market is located in Boulder along 13th Street, in between Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue. Its proximity next to downtown’s Central Park means that it is easily accessed by bike path or by bus.

Hours: From April through November, the Boulder Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and on Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The market is open rain, shine or snow.

What you can expect: Though the Boulder Farmers’ Market tries to focus on the agricultural products of local farmers, it is also home to many artisans and community groups. In addition to the fresh produce, honey and dairy from local farms, expect a selection of locally made arts and crafts, florists, artists and political groups.

What you should know: The market typically has more vendors present on Saturday, so expect more foot traffic with the selection. Be prepared for weather: wear sunblock or bring an umbrella. Anyone browsing with a dog must make sure that it is properly leashed.

For sellers: If you’re interested in setting up a space at the Boulder Farmers’ Market, download the Boulder County Farmers’ Markets guidelines at www.boulderfarmers.org. There you will find more details about what can and cannot be sold, taxes, sign and space regulations and membership. Space fills up quickly each year.

For more information: Call 303-910-2236, e-mail information@boulderfarmers.org, or visit www.boulderfarmers.org

Longmont Farmers’ Market
Location: The European outdoor marketplace is located in Longmont along the tree-lined streets of the Boulder County Fairgrounds at Hover Road and Boston Avenue.

Hours: From May through October, the Longmont Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market is open rain, shine, wind or snow.

What you can expect: Visitors will find a wide array of Colorado-grown produce of both the conventional and organic varieties. All items marketed as “organic” have been certified organic by the state of Colorado. In addition to the obvious produce options you might expect, you can also find unique items such as golden beets, white eggplant, purple beans and other interesting choices.

What you should know: There’s plenty of free parking available for farmers’ market customers. As the market goes on rain or shine, be prepared for weather: wear sunblock or bring an umbrella.

For sellers: If you’re interested in setting up a space at the Longmont Farmers’ Market, go to www.longmontfarmers.com and click on the appropriate area of interest for more information on how to participate. You will find more details about what can and cannot be sold, taxes, sign and space regulations and membership. Space fills up quickly each year.

For more information: Visit www.longmontfarmers.com for additional details.

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