Gilroy Downtown Farmers Market Ready to Bear Fruit

Gilroy is rightfully crowned the “Garlic Capital of the World,” and it is also known throughout the region for its bounty of other locally grown fruits and vegetables. The only thing missing from our agricultural heritage is a hometown farmers market. This will change in a few short weeks.

The Gilroy Downtown Farmers Market will hold its grand opening on Sunday, June 5, as part of the annual Spice of Life Festival. Leadership Gilroy will host the kickoff event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is located at 7^th and Eigleberry streets. Following the opening weekend, the market will run every Sunday at the same location, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., until Nov. 20.

The benefits of a Gilroy farmers market are obvious. First, the market will highlight the finest locally grown produce. Residents and visitors alike will be able to enjoy the bounty of these fruits and vegetables, and Gilroy producers will be able to sell their products in their own community. The market sits next to the Demonstration Garden, and will include arts and crafts and numerous specialty items.

Additionally, the market will serve as a showcase for our blooming arts community.  The market is located adjacent to the Gilroy Arts Center, and organizers Judy Hess and Catalina Ventura plan on hosting arts exhibits, musical performances, and dramatic productions on the market grounds. As such, the Gilroy Downtown Farmers Market plans to be more than a simple shopping experience; it will also serve as a venue for showcasing local talent of all ages and artistic media.

Finally, the Gilroy Downtown Farmers Market will energize economic growth. Visitors and residents will have easy access to the market, given its proximity to the center of the city, as well as its location near public transit. It will draw food enthusiasts, families, and tourists, and give them a reason to visit and shop in our downtown. Local growers will also have a community-based market in which to sell their products.

This is our downtown, and this is our farmers market. The community is ready for a venue like this to bear fruit.