Napa Valley farmers markets open the season

Opening day for the Napa Farmers Market always feels like summer.  It’s sunny, people stroll around leisurely in their shorts and sandals as if on vacation.  We’re lured out of hibernation by the colorful selection of the season’s first crops, the scent of flowers and by the taste of a juicy strawberry.  But the farmers market is much more that just a ‘market’, it’s a communal experience where everyone cares deeply about one thing:  local, sustainably-grown and flavorful food.  It’s a chance to engage with growers and producers and to discover.

Soul Food Farm eggs

In addition to produce, the farmers markets feature crafts, artisanal foods, baked goods and coffee, live music and plants.  At the Downtown Napa farmers market, Master Gardeners are on hand every Tuesday to answer any gardening questions you may have while the Worm Lady will teach you about composting food scraps.

The Downtown Napa farmers market is open every Tuesday and Saturday mornings at 500 First Street in Napa, next to the Oxbow Public Market.  Up-Valley, Saint Helena starts this Friday May 4th at Crane Park while Calistoga begins May 7th in Sharpsteen Plaza.  Open from 7:30 am to Noon (Calistoga from 8:30 am).