We spoke to Cody Reinheimer, Market Manager at the Durango Farmer’s Market, about what to expect at this year’s delicious smorgasbord, which opens Saturday.
What is the best time of year to buy what?
Available in spring months of May and June: Cool season crops such as asparagus, carrots, bok choy, kohlrabi, cauliflower, broccoli, peas, beets, radishes, parsley and an assortment of herbs and leeks. Also lots of greens such as head lettuce, loose leaf lettuce, salad mix, spinach, kale, rainbow chard, sprouted greens and arugula.
Available in summer months of July, August and September: Much of the same cool season crops and greens, in addition to the warm season crops of tomatoes, peppers, onions, eggplant, melons, zucchini, strawberries, raspberries, rhubarb, basil, cilantro, beans, corn, pears, apples, apricots, cherries, edamame, table grapes, cucumbers, squash and roasted green chiles.
Available in October: Much of what the summer and spring season has to offer, along with the additions of pumpkins, potatoes, garlic, turnips, parsnips and winter squashes.
Available all year long: A variety of protein products such as eggs, cheese, mushrooms, chicken, beef, lamb, goat and pork.
Also available at the market in all seasons: Ready-to-eat meals made with local ingredients, coffee, juice, granola, honey, jams and an assortment of artisan goods such as cutting boards, clothes, art, soaps and lotions.
How many vendors this year? Any new vendors?Sixty-four total. This year there will be a full-time honey vendor (starting in July) named Bee-Orn Apiaries. They started in our Ag. Incubator program last year and are now going full-time. Telluride Mushroom Company is also joining (from Mancos). Other new farms include Brown’s Country Store, Summit Roots Farm, Razzmatazz (specializing in all things raspberries), the Cory Schmitt Farm and the Pitts Family Ranch.
What else can people expect?Every market features a massage tent, a licensed acupuncturist, a henna stain artist and a knife-sharpener booth. There is also live music every week from local and traveling musicians; this year’s lineup includes Hello, Dollface, Magi Nation, Carute Roma, The Chava People, The Assortment and more.
