Denver Farmers' Markets: Fresh Food, Homemade Goods All Summer Long

Without a doubt, as soon as summer rolls around - or even late spring, weather permitting - I cannot wait to indulge in what I consider to be my favorite neighborhood activity: Denver farmers' markets! Denver farmers' markets provide a great opportunity for folks to get out in the sunshine to get some great deals, while supporting the local economy. Another great thing about the Mile High City's farmers' markets is that many have a street fair feel to them, with live music and other activities. It's a wonderful way to socialize with friends and family, or other Denver citizens, while buying some baked goods, farm-fresh produce and other homemade goodies.

The Metro Denver Farmers Market

The Metro Denver Farmers' Market group has over thirty years of experience in providing green, locally-grown and home made products all summer long. With five locations offered one six days of the week, local shoppers can choose to visit the nearest location or travel throughout the Denver metro area for an even wider variety of goods. That flexibility and organization greatly appealed to me when I first started researching Denver farmers' markets, and I certainly wasn't disappointed! Face painting, Colorado wines, bath and body products are all up for grabs from vendors who are a part of the Metro Denver Farmers' Market roster.

You can participate in the shopping extravaganza in two locations in Denver on Saturday and Monday, Highlands Ranch on Sunday from 10am until 2pm, Aurora on Tuesday from 10am until 3pm, Littleton on Wednesday from 10am to 3pm, and in Wheat Ridge on Thursday from 10am to 3pm. For directions and Google Map links, please visit the Metro Denver Farmers' Market locations page.

The Colorado Fresh Markets

Another group with a lot of opportunities for some great outings and products is the Colorado Fresh Market. With three locations open regardless of the weather or holidays, there is plenty to see and buy beginning in early May until late October. Locally grown produce, cheeses, natural meats and Colorado wines are all available, and many of the goods are considered gourmet-quality by local chefs. The open-air market setting is reminiscent of European style markets, and this group has been featured in numerous magazines.

The Cherry Creek Fresh Market dates are Saturday from 8am to 1pm, and Wednesdays from 9am ''¹..."til 1pm. The Stapleton Farmers' Market is available on Sundays from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and the City Park Esplanade Fresh Market is also on Sundays from 9am to 1pm. For exact locations map directions and photos, please visit the Colorado Fresh Markets official markets list.

The Golden Farmers' Market

Since I live in the West Denver Metro area, Golden is just a quick trip up 6^th Avenue, and I often find myself headed that way. The Golden Farmers' Market is yet another reason to drive a bit closer to the mountains, and I have come to consider Golden too fantastic of a small community to be overlooked for someone as nearby as Denver. Beginning in June, this market runs every Saturday through October with only a few exceptions, from 8am until 1pm. Parking is available in the lot just west of the Library on 10^th street, and once you arrive the market itself is hard to miss.

There are free carriage rides, antiques and festival events for the whole family to enjoy, plus the tremendous amount of locally grown and homemade products. Flowers, d©cor items, specialty treats and cooking ingredients are mixed in with the usual produce, home baked bread and pastas. One of the best things about the Golden Farmers' Market is that they participate in the Federal EBT and Food Stamp programs. "The market will accept the food stamp card for market dollars that can be spent on eligible items - namely, non-prepared foods intended to be eaten at home and seeds and plants with which to grow food. The cash program will also be accepted at the market," explains the official website.

Sources:

Metro Denver Farmers' Market, "Market Locations"

Markets - Colorado Fresh Markets, "Markets"

Farmers Market, "Golden Farmers' Market"