The warmer weather means the opening of the Cochrane Farmer’s Market is right around the corner.
Opening June 1, the market will offer wares from local vendors each Saturday at the Cochrane Ranche Historic Site. The weekly event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through to the end of September, rain or shine.
“The farmer’s market is one of those people-bumping-into-each-other events for this community,” said Valerie McCracken, market manager. “We’ve been so grateful for our space at the Ranche — the trees and the park really make the market special.”
Operated by the Cochrane Environmental Action Committee (CEAC), the market promises oodles of fresh produce and other goodies, sold by a mix of familiar faces and brand-new vendors.
This year, vendors include Mountainview Colony, Buffalo Horn Ranch, M.A.D. Crafters, Field Stone Fruit Wines and gluten-free bakery Naturalistic.
The list of vendors for the market continues to grow, said McCracken, with a full day at the market consisting of 45-50 vendors. This is especially impressive considering the market was considering closing its doors as little as five years ago. This is the 15th year for the market.
“In our 10th year, we didn’t even know if the market was going to survive,” said McCracken. “We only had 20-25 vendors. Now, five years later, we’ve doubled in size.”
The CEAC is always trying to provide their vendors — and the customers — with improved developments and care, said McCracken. This year, she said organizers are looking for ways to maximize market parking.
“We want to get everyone in, but we still want to keep the parking,” she added. “We’re currently exploring options of expanding onto the grass.
McCracken said the market is considering an increase in the size of the market, although a move isn’t currently in the works. While the group loves their location on the historic site, she said they haven’t ruled out relocating for a bigger, more centralized market.
The CEAC accepts vendor applications year round. While many of the full-time vendor slots are secured prior to the start of market season, McCracken encourages anyone interested to submit an application.
Part-time vendor applications are accepted year-round.
To apply as a vendor or volunteer, or to learn more about the Cochrane Farmer’s Market, visit cochrane-environment.org/farmers-market.
