Winter market munchies

As the weather turns colder and the seasons begin to change here in Bozeman, there is nothing better than a warm home-cooked, meal. Luckily, citizens of Gallatin county can head over to the local farmers’ market every other Saturday to collect all the fresh, delicious ingredients they may need to cook up something wonderful.

On Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., the second Winter Farmers’ Market took place within the Gallatin County Fairground’s Exhibition Hall. The snow that fell throughout the day helped to set the mood for the winter market. In the past, the Winter Farmers’ Market took place in the Emerson Cultural Center, but the fairgrounds allow everyone to stay safe from the elements while social distancing.

According to the Winter Farmers’ Market website, “What began ten years ago as a small group of farmers huddled together outside selling their winter veggies is now a successful, thriving market with a bounty of local vegetables and farm products.”

At the market each year you can find many winter veggies, including lots of root vegetables like potatoes, onions, carrots and beets. The vendors at the Winter Farmers’ Market have been working hard to bring plenty of fresh greens as well, including arugula, spinach and mixed greens. The farmers’ market also features vendors who sell fresh eggs, pastries, local goat cheese, meats, tea, honey and beautiful floral arrangements.

Every Saturday, the Winter Farmers’ Market produces a list of foods and beverages that will be available to purchase at the upcoming market. This is done so that patrons know exactly what is at each market, which the list assists market-goers in their hunt for local products.

The market has had to alter some of its protocols due to COVID-19, including enforcing a safe traffic flow, requiring masks and not offering “market bucks,” pieces of wood that act as a form of payment for vendors who don’t accept card payments. Nevertheless, the market doesn’t fail to create a wonderful sense of community for all the townsfolk who attend. The bustling conversation between vendors and attendees, and the smell of fresh food helps to make the farmers’ market a wonderful way to spend your Saturday morning.

The next Bozeman Winter Farmers’ Market will take place on Saturday, Oct. 31 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Fairgrounds. Visit the website at bozemanwintermarket.com for more information about what will be available and be sure to head on over to the market if you are a fan of local goodies and pleasant company.