Downtown Farmers Market @ Downtown Alliance (SLC: June 8)

Opening DATE June 8^th for DOWNTOWN farmers market’S 21^st YEAR

Extended hours highlight the market’s return to Pioneer Park

Salt Lake City (June 7, 2013) – The Downtown Farmers Market will celebrate its 21st year of providing opportunities for the community to support local. The Market—with more than 250 vendors—offers a unique variety of farmers, growers, bakeries, prepared food and beverages, packaged foods and local artisans.

The Market is open Saturday mornings, beginning June 8th, at 8 AM and Tuesday evenings, beginning August 6th, at 4 PM in Historic Pioneer Park, Downtown Salt Lake City. As the popularity of the market has grown over the past two decades, with attendance nearly 10,000, so has customer demand. To offer vendors and market-goers additional opportunities, the market hours have been extended to 2 PM.

Several farmers attribute participation in The Market accounting for up to half of their family’s income. Additionally, the Farmers Market also plays an important role in growing businesses. Many vendors who began selling their products at the market (Rico Brand, Bruges Waffles and Frites, Ruby Snap to name a few) now have a presence in brick and mortar businesses, contributing year-round to the local economy.

The Downtown Farmers Market has also lessened some impacts: “We offer a Waste Wise program to teach market visitors what can be recycled and what is bound for a landfill”, said Nick Como, Communication Director for The Downtown Alliance. “ Vendors do their part as well utilizing recyclable materials whenever possible and we do not allow Styrofoam.” Farmers Market organizers encourage patrons to bring their own plates and mugs for food and beverages to further reduce waste, as well as reusable grocery bags.

Whether you ride TRAX, pedal a bike utilizing the SLC Bike Collective’s free valet or take advantage of the abundance of free parking at the Ford Garage, (250 S. 400 W.) getting to the Market couldn’t be easier for patrons.  Additionally, a free produce check is available for those who purchase more than they would like to carry for the walk to their car.

Music at the Market, presented by City Weekly returns with an exciting roster of local musicians from 11 AM – 1 PM Market-goers will also find a wide variety of live entertainment, with an appeal to all tastes and ages.

The Market will continue to accept food stamps through the EBT Alternative Purchasing Program with the goals to improve accessibility to fresh food for lower and fixed-income consumers, and to increase revenue for farmers and food producers at the Market.

More Downtown Farmers Market information: www.slcfarmersmarket.org/

The Downtown Alliance is dedicated to building a dynamic and divers community that is the regional center for culture, commerce and entertainment. For more information, visit downtownslc.org