St. George Downtown Farmers Market continues Saturday with the music of Dulce
Written by George Scott
The St. George Downtown Farmers Market opened its eighth season on Saturday, May 9, in Ancestor Square. This year the market has expanded and offers many more options, including produce, meat, free range eggs, baked goods, artisan crafted products, and other food. And live music. This will continue on Saturday, May 16, with the music of local band Dulce.
Amidst rain, the market kicked off the season at 8 a.m. with farmers, crafters, and buyers showing up to see what was in season. Fresh, gorgeous produce filled the farmers’ tables. Vibrant colors of delicious strawberries, cherries, blueberries, peaches, and apricots begged to dance with the taste buds. Organic cucumbers, sprouts, asparagus, and salad greens offered the promise of a tango if taken home and tossed in a bowl.
Full-on meal preparation items—including beef, lamb, pork, free range eggs, a huge selection of varying jerky, nuts, breads, granola, pastries, sauces, jellies, and raw honey—made it possible to do nearly all your grocery shopping at the market. For those coming hungry, Waffle Love, Perks, and others offered freshly made items ready to be enjoyed while shopping.
Market regulars and local favorites, Joe and Paula Ferrario of the band Stillhouse Road, brought their sweet mix of originals, bluegrass, mountain music, and gospel favorites. They were determined to play despite the rain as they sat up just inside Ancestor Tower where their music could be heard wafting out of the open door and onto the venue. The flow of vibrant vocals, guitar, bass, and the distinguished sounds of the mandolin made the market feel alive.
Mayor Pike showed up to open the market. However, due to the rain, he decided to do an encore opening at this week’s market on May 16. Jil Gardella, manager of the St. George Downtown Farmers Market, said of the opener, “Great rainy day market! Once the rain stopped, we were busy.”
Gardella said she is excited for the expansion and continued items that will be made available through the season.
The St. George Downtown Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 8 am to noon. The music starts at 9:30. This Saturday, the market will feature the music of Dulce. Mike and Jaki King are a husband and wife duo that plays all the favorites.
