TO MARKET, TO MARKET AGAIN
Growers’ markets have started sprouting back up in the Albuquerque area, just in time for spring.
It’s time to grab your reusable tote bag and wide-brimmed hat, because farmer’s markets are back.
Several of Albuquerque’s growers’ markets have reopened or are preparing to reopen and welcome patrons and farmers back for the 2021 season.
Last year saw many of the local markets have to temporarily shutter or pivot to a drive-thru online ordering system before going back to an in-person market — but this year markets are opening for in-person shopping and selling.
Downtown Growers’ Market
The opening of the Downtown Growers’ Market last week marked the start of the 25th year for the weekly event at Robinson Park.
“We really want people to kind of see us as an outdoor grocery retail space,” market manager Danielle Schlobohm said. “Come support the local vendors who are working hard to keep their businesses going. And then once we’re able to, we’ll be able to hang out again.”
With the opening of the county, the market will now be home to just over 100 vendors compared to the 70 vendors the market was allowed to have last year, Schlobohm said. If New Mexico continues to reopen, the market may be able to return to its total capacity of 138 vendor spaces.
Schlobohm said the market will operate similarly to how it did last season: lines to enter the park, capacity limits, ban on pets and a discouragement of eating while shopping.
However, she said the market will be able to resume selling food prepared on-site, meaning some vendors who were unable to sell last season will be able to return.
“We’re excited that ... we’re able to offer some kind of space for people to come out and see other people and socialize, to some degree, even if we have to stay physically distant,” Schlobohm said.
The market will only operate in-person and there won’t be any farm to car events or online ordering.
The market is held from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday at Robinson Park.
Corrales Growers’ Market
The Corrales Growers’ Market begins its season Sunday, according to its website.
The weekly market is home to 24 different vendors that sell products ranging from meats to vegetables to baked goods and more.
Visitors will be required to follow COVID-safe precautions by wearing a mask and maintaining social distance.
The market is held from 9 a.m. to noon every Sunday at 500 Jones Road in Corrales.
Rail Yards Market
The Rail Yards Market is getting ready to reopen for both in-person and online shopping this season, according to the market.
While the market officially opens on Sunday, May 2, the market’s online ordering system will open for orders on Monday.
Orders may be picked up via curbside delivery during market hours or delivered after the market has closed.
The Rail Yards Market is held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday starting May 2 at 777 1st SW.