Farmers market expansion

Exciting expansion for Farmers Market

ERIN BELMONT Hamilton Farmers Market Coop Board Owner of House of Ferments

Hamilton Farmers Market; the promise of fresh vegetables, warmer temps, and reconnecting with seasonal friends. It’s almost here and what a season it is going to be!

The Hamilton Farmers Market has been a Saturday staple for a few decades now, growing from a handful of vendors to two blocks worth of the finest vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers as well as baked goods, eggs, honey, ferments, and artwork all finely crafted by our neighbors.

This season brings about some big changes for the Market as it expands and shifts location.

“The expansion seemed to be an unintended consequence of concerns about parking in the neighborhood. The city council, mayor and city planner, along with locals really came together and worked out a plan with the market board and manager to not only solve the parking issue but to improve the market by expanding it making it safer,” said Hamilton Farmers Market Coop board president Stacy Lewis.

The negotiations led to the market shifting from its location on North Third Street to Second Street. Bedford Street remains a thoroughfare and South Third will have its returning vendors but the addition of Second Street has really opened up new opportunities for the market.

Market Manager Terri Frost reported that all but three spots have already been filled for the season. The expansion will also allow for additional food trucks and vendors. Growing our market is great for the community. It’s a place to obtain locally grown produce and hand-crafted goods, and it also fosters community by providing a place for people to gather on a regular basis.

Lewis, of Zaxan Coffee: “Farmers markets are great little regular community meet up spots where you can find folks from all walks of life on common ground.”

Safety has always been a top concern, not only for the market board, but also for the city and law enforcement.

Lewis said “The city is planning on putting up removable barriers in the future. In the meantime, vendors will be able to park their cars along the back of their booths to keep the walkways safe.” The expansion will help make the market safer and more walkable. With Second Street closed off, people will have an easier time accessing the market from the park on Second and Bedford. The Ravalli County Museum lawn will remain a focal point for gathering as well.

The Hamilton Farmers Market Board is excited about these changes and invites the community to take full advantage of everything the Market has to offer.

The Hamilton Farmers Market takes place every Saturday May through the 3rd Saturday in October, 9am -12:30pm. For more information check out hamiltonfarmersmarket.org, Facebook, or contact Terri Frost, Market Manager, at managerhfm@cybernet1.com. Check back often for updates about vendors, music, and events.