By Jennifer Pund
FRONT RANGE

Late spring and summer brings popular farmer’s markets to mountain town across the Northern Front Range. Some communities have a long tradition of hosting a market while others are just forming or rebuilding. All of the weekly events offer fresh produce, opportunity to browse distinctive products and listen to local entertainment while supporting local farms and products giving residents and visitors options for purchasing fruit and vegetables.

The Estes Valley Farmer’s Market is back in Bond Park on Thursdays beginning June 4, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. or longer. Parking is available until 10 a.m. After that, city buses and trollies will be available to drop off and pick up in front of the market.“The vendors and volunteers and excited to see everyone this season,” organizers said. “We hope to help make every visit enjoyable.”

The Estes Valley Farmers Market also features a full line up of live entertainment from 9-11 a.m. every week. Kicking off the season on June 4, Steve Smersh brings his humor and musical talents. On June 11, Vic Anderson will perform his world class yodeling and on June 18, Scott “Flyin’ Fingers” Wilseck will play piano tunes. “The Kilted Man” and his witty performance take place on June 25.

Central City has recently updated its Farmer’s Market plans for pilot program this summer. Free Farmer’s Markets will now take place in the first Sunday of July, August, September and October in the parking lot between RMO Retail & Medical Store and Reserve Casino on Gregory Street. Jomar Suarez, MD and 7 Healing Stars Oneness Center with help from Karen Beightol of the Gilpin Market/Burger Joint are sponsoring the event in cooperation with Central City. They are looking for 10 organic produce vendors, two prepared food vendors, and musicians to take part. Contact Beightol at 303-719-7037 for further vendor information or to apply.

Idaho Springs Chamber of Commerce is again hosting the Idaho Springs Farmers Market every Friday from June 5 to Sept. 4 at Courtney Riley Cooper Park. “Last year we had a hard year with major construction of the interstate through Idaho Springs.” Tracy Stokes, Chamber Member and organizer of this years market, said. “We are so happy to welcome back Miller Farms and their fresh produce. [The Farmers Market] is a great way to connect the community with the local farmers. Many come out routinely to get some really great priced veggies.”

Stokes has invited local musicians to include music performances in the pavilion this season. “Although it wont be every Friday, it is long over due,” she said.

Farmer’s markets are a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of fresh produce and unique gift options throughout the summer. You even might meet a neighbor or two, as well.

Bond Park is located at 225 E. Elkhorn Ave. in Estes Park; Courtney Riley Cooper Park is located at 2350 Colorado Blvd. in Idaho Springs and the Central City parking lot is on Gregory Street between RMO Retail & Medical Store and Reserve Casino.

Originally published in the June 2015 issue of the MMAC Monthly