The Downtown Farmers’ Market

 

Summer can be a hectic time. Which is why, somehow, I sped through the 2006 season without a trek to Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers’ Market. This past Saturday a return visit reminded me what I’ve been missing.

When I think of a farmers’ market, the first thing that comes to mind is produce, fresh off the farm and bursting with flavor and color. But the annual Downtown Farmers’ Market is all that and so much more. It’s about seasonal flowers, home-baked pies, handcrafted textiles, lawn and garden art. The market is street corner music and the sound of kettle corn popping. And it’s a showcase of the melting pot that is Des Moines with street-side cuisine from Pakistan, Asia … and nearby Iowa destinations.

My husband Frank and I began our shopping experience by seeking out breakfast. While tempted by the sugary scents of baklava and cinnamon rolls, we made our way to Breakfast Guys & Gals for quick English muffin sandwiches. Our choice was prompted by short lines and cold Cola Cola, the latter iced down since four o’clock that morning, the Huxley-based owner assured me.

While enjoying our meal on park benches, we noted a trend; one the the nicest surprises after a year’s absence from the event, was the increase in the number of organic produce stands. And, after finishing breakfast, we stopped to chat with the vendor from chemical-free Blue Gate Farm. While Blue Gate didn’t have the largest display of produce, their selection was quite unique with its bouquet of multi-colored carrots. A canning jar of a faint green herbal syrup caught my eye. We were offered a sample of a lemonade mixed with the syrup; the combination of lemon with hint of rosemary and other herbs was a surprise hit and we quickly purchased a jar.

Familiar vendors were still on hand, as well. We headed to Scavo’s location for more Iowa grown produce. There we talked with John. His family has been growing and selling vegetables in Des Moines since Frank was a boy. As I selected the choicest ripe tomatoes, John inquired after Frank’s many cousins who have now moved away from the south side of the city.

I looked around at the people chatting across from the curbside musician. At those admiring the huge samoyed dog. These folks weren’t in a hurry to snap up groceries and go. Because, ultimately, the Downtown Farmers’ Market is about connecting, community. And that’s a great way to begin a weekend.

Get the most out of your market experience with these quick tips:

• Before heading out, grab sunglasses and ball cap.
• Consider sun screen.
• Wear sturdy walking shoes.
• And download a map from the Downtown Farmers’ Market Web site.

Guest Writer: Brenda Friedrich is an Iowa-based writer and business
communications consultant. You can also find her blogging at Enroute365.