The last weekend in October means the last of a few things around Durango. On Saturday, the Durango Farmers Market held its final hurrah. But not for long.
In its 19th year, the farmers market has grown steadily. Originally at Chapman Hill, it began with just five vendors. This past season, 45 vendors set up tables every Saturday, selling everything from ceramics and handmade goods, to coffee, honey and massages.
Kay James, of James Ranch in Hermosa, has been there since the beginning.
“Well, it’s grown since we were at Chapman Hill,” she said. “Added food, coffee and pastries and music, and there are so many more vegetable farmers.”
The Jameses, among the founding partners of the market, have even grown their own operation from beef to include pork, cheese and garden vegetables.
“It’s just mushroomed,” James said, “and we even have mushrooms.”
First year market manager Cody Reinheimer said, overall, it has been a strong season for the market and its members.
“We had new farms, new artisans, and they all did well enough to want to return next year,” Reinheimer said.
By the looks of things on Saturday, the market had no signs of slowing down. Actually, a buzz already filled the air about two upcoming holiday markets that will take place at the La Plata County Fairgrounds.
“So, November 22 – the Saturday before Thanksgiving – there will be market with fresh greens from greenhouses and fall root crops,” he said. In addition, handmade goods will be available.
On Dec. 13, too, another market will be held.
“I think we’ve had a really productive fall meeting, and everybody seems to be moving toward a bright future,” Reinheimer said. “I’d say it was a really great year.”
Lines formed around local farmers like Homegrown Farm, of Bayfield, and Fields to Plate Produce, of Hesperus. Pumpkins piled up, and baskets of gourds spilled over.
The Pie Maker Bakery from Mancos and Serious Delights sold pastries. Potters sold their wares, and the band played on.
“It’s good to have fresh, local food rather than stuff that’s been brought in on trucks that’s weeks old,” James said. “It’s supporting the local economy, and it’s just getting bigger and better all the time.”
bmathis@durangoherald.com
