Extras | May 23, 2013


Buyer's Market
Denver Farmer's Markets

Following the market can make your stomach flip, your heart race, and your bank accounts fluctuate more than the Twister II these days.

So, why not stick to a different kind of market. The kind that will make your stomach and wallet happy at the same time.

Your local Farmer's Market.

What better way to spend your morning than perusing through gobs of fresh veggies, fruits, homemade breads, pastries and let's not forget about the pastas. If you're not inspired to go home and whip up a delicious meal after walking through a scene from the Food Network, we're not sure what to tell you.  

Farmer's Markets have been popping up all over town and are here to stay for the summer, so don't fret for a second that you won't find one close by.

Here are a couple of our favorites to stop by while in the neighborhood:

Belmar - This European style market offers up cooking demos and gardening classes each Sunday, along with the normal outdoor market offerings. Watch out for the occasional pie eating contests, as well as free train rides for the kids. Belmar, W. Alaska Drive, Sundays, June - September, 10am - 2pm.

Cherry Creek - Having been nicknamed the mothership of Denver's local markets, Cherry Creek certainly offers the most options to choose from on your weekend prowl for fresh produce. Offering much more than locally grown fruits and vegetables, this is more of a fair than a market. People come for all reasons - beware, some even head over to show off the newest Bugaboo stroller model. Bed, Bath & Beyond Parking lot, 2500 E. 1st Ave, May - October, Wednesdays, 9am-1pm & Saturdays, 7:30am - 12:30pm. 

City Park Esplanade - Part of Colorado Fresh Markets, City Park isn't going to have the largest amount of options in Denver, but it doesn't mean you won't find some great goodies to fill your recyclable bags. It's worth a ride on your cruiser or a jog through the park to check out what's fresh and in season this weekend. E. Colfax Ave & Columbine St, Sundays, May - Nov 1, 9am-1pm.

The Highlands - The newest edition to the Denver neighborhood markets, this hidden gem got its start a few short weeks ago. It has been growing weekly and has lots of great options to choose from. They've got locally made salsa, flowers, homemade pastas and raviolis, jams and organic soaps. Enjoy the live music as you shopl! Boulder Street, Saturdays, June - October, 9am - 1pm.

Northfield Stapleton - In between your shopping trip to Bass Pro Shop and Target, check out the intimate market in the Northfield Stapleton area. There will be lots of organic and pesticide-free produce, delicious baked goods along with other homemade and handmade products. West side of Northfields by Bass Pro Shops, Saturdays, June through October, 9am- 2pm.

South Pearl Street - Summertime on South Pearl brings out a friendly gathering of locals with a community vibe, especially when it comes to the weekly Farmer's Market. Pop by on your way to brunch at Gaia Bistro or picking up cupcakes at Mulberries. Grab some fresh sweet corn and delicious homemade bread. We promise that it will be worth your while!  South Pearl St, btwn Florida and Iowa, Sundays, June - October, 9am - 1pm

Sweet William - Don't miss the unique European sytle market in Stapleton featuring eclectic and charming home and garden finds. Whether you're looking for a retro-mod table or a vintage refurbished chair, this is your final desitination for the day. Plus they feature the latest trends in art, jewelry and design. Founder's Green Park, Last Saturday of the month, May - October, 9am - 3pm.

A Paris Street Market - The big daddy of 'em all is a true Parisian style flea market held on the first Saturday of each month. This open air market has a huge range of items for sale from antiques, retro collectibles, vintage clothing, and jewelry to fresh bread and pastries. There are over 120 vendors offering unique and cool stuff each month.  Aspen Grove, First Saturday of the month, May - October, 8am - 3pm.

P.S. Want to eat for a good cause? Snag a ticket to Taste of the Nation, an upcoming culinary benefit at Mile High Station. Help end childhood hunger and experience food from some Denver's top chefs and restaurants: D Bar, Encore, TAG, Jing, Black Pearl, Venue Bistro, Elway's Cherry Creek, Jonesy's Eat Bar, Avenue Bar & Grill, Vesta Dipping Grill and Steuben's. Sunday, July 19, 4pm, www.tasteofthenation.org