Saratoga News

Summer crops finally arrive at Saratoga Farmers Market

By Michelle Alaimo

Now that the rain is over and the sun is out, visitors to the Saratoga Farmer's Market will finally start to get the summer fare they might have expected earlier in the season.

El Niño's wrath damaged a lot of traditional summer crops earlier this year, leaving farmers scrambling to get crops replanted in time for the summer season. The small farmers were the most affected, said Bill Cooper, Saratoga Market Days Committee chairman. He added that in the last few weeks, vendors at the farmer's market have had far more seasonal fruit and vegetables to offer.

Despite the slow start to the summer season, Doug Hayden, president of the California Farmers Market Association, said the market is doing well in its second year at the Saratoga High School parking lot location. The market averages 1,500 customers each Saturday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Hayden said. He added that the mailing list for Saratoga's market is approximately 2,000.

Previously, a different company ran a farmer's market in Saratoga Village, but met with only moderate success because of congestion and limited parking.

"It's working far better than it ever was in the Village," Cooper said. Hayden added that customers have accessible and easy parking at the Herriman Avenue high school, which has helped keep customers coming back.

This year's market features about 38 farmers and growers, three more than last year. The market, which went year-round late last year, features a variety of foods including smoked salmon, melons and stonefruit.

Activities, music and information are also available. Hayden said that every three weeks he gives away an 80-pound basket filled with everything available at the market to one lucky shopper. Saratoga Market Days offers a booth that gives out information on the city of Saratoga and its businesses. In addition, Hayden has added demonstrations that show customers how to cook a variety of foods, including Asian vegetables. A local band also plays music each week, and the market has children's face painting twice a month.

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