The Gilroy Farmers Market is growing steadily every Saturday, after launching Dec. 14 at Luigi Aprea Elementary School.
Manager Sal Ascencio said certified organic winter vegetables are in abundance at the market, including Rainbow Swiss chard, carrots, cabbage, kale and more from Alberto’s Farm of Hollister.
“Last Saturday’s produce was harvested the previous day, and the crop was absolutely beautiful, vibrant colors, and of course, nutritious,” Ascencio said.
Castellanos Farms of Dinuba offers persimmons, blood oranges, lemons and other winter fruits.
Ascencio said all vendors that were part of the opening day on Dec. 14 have returned every week. That Garlic Stuff, which sells marinated garlic sauces, joined the market on Jan. 4, and other vendors have expressed interest.
Ascencio added that the market is “actively recruiting” food vendors, with Big D’s Hot Dogs expected to join soon, as well as a kettle corn vendor.
Live music is also on tap for late January.
“We project that we’ll have about 15 to 20 vendors by spring/summer,” he said.
Ascencio praised city leaders for their support, including the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Association and the Gilroy Library, as well as customers.
“Our vision is to have a well-rounded, vibrant yet intimate, farmers market offering fresh produce, often picked in the last 24 hours,” he said. “With a variety of quality vendors, food and music, we aspire to create an enjoyable ambiance for the whole family to enjoy.”
The Gilroy Farmers Market runs year-round every Saturday at Luigi Aprea Elementary School, 9225 Calle Del Rey, from 10am to 2pm. For information, visit tcfm.farm.
