Market season has officially begun: Not cloudy weather nor a short hail storm could stop the first Nederland’s Farmers Market of 2024.[/caption]

On Sunday, May 12, the day began overcast and gloomy, the ground muddy and littered with deep puddles. Despite the dreary weather, locals and visitors flocked to the center of town as the Nederland Farmers Market kicked off the 2024 market season on Mother’s Day.

Just as the market opened at 10 a.m. the clouds above it seemed to part and let the sun shine in, and the sweet sounds of live bluegrass by Stone Hall (Eric Stone and Tom Hall) accompanied the smiling faces of those excited for what the Nederland Farmers Market offers and represents every year: a lively and authentic local experience.

Favorite vendors from markets past, as well as plenty of exciting newcomers, presented their goods, from locally sourced produce and other specialty foods, to handmade art and crafts. These vendors beamed with excitement to be back in their booths for another year, or to experience the welcoming and collaborative spirit of the market for the first time.

Kind Confections returned with their popular gluten-free and vegan treats, and Susan’s Samosas returned to serve their delicious savory delicacies, as well as their mixed berry and Nutella samosas.

Greg Marquez was in attendance with his hand carved and painted wooden toys, and market staple Wandering Blue Studios returned with their uniquely designed and colored pottery and glass.

Newcomers to the market include Hare Family Farm of Berthoud, Colorado, who provided organic hemp hand balms, including one which helps with joint and muscle discomfort. Overachieving Tea offered their healthier alternative to coffee with natural Yerba Mate cold and hot teas. And Lakewood-based bakery A Kitchen Mouse presented beautiful breakfast pastries and delectable focaccia bread.

Though dark clouds came and rained hail down onto the market, it was only a short inconvenience that barely scared away the crowd and couldn’t faze the spirits of those working and volunteering at the market. Bright sun and blue skies prevailed on the opening day of the Nederland Farmers Market.

This years market season is sponsored by Backcountry Pizza, The Caribou Room, Crosscut, Diner Bar, Dino Moves, Eldora, Elevated Impressions, realtor Jessica Fitzer, Gold Dirt Distillery, High Performance Earthworks, Hub Ned, Knotted Root Brewing Company, The Mountain-Ear, Mountain Peoples Co-Op, Salto, Tadasana Mountain Yoga, and others.

The Nederland Farmers Market is held on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every two weeks from May through to October. The market holds two festivals every year which feature even more vendors and food options, live music, and alcohol; The Party in the Peaks is scheduled for July 21, and Harvest Fest is scheduled for October 6. Both festivals are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information go to: https://www.nederlandfarmersmarket.org.