GRANTS, N.M. — Despite a steady breeze sweeping through City Hall Park, the July 12 Farmers Market was full of energy, color, and creativity. Live music from local performers filled the air with violin and guitar melodies as families and neighbors explored an impressive spread of handcrafted goods, homemade foods, and community booths. The wind tugged at flyers and rustled tablecloths, but it didn’t stop dozens of vendors and shoppers from turning out to enjoy one of the most bustling markets of the season.
One of the day’s highlights was the return of Rochelle McCowan and her world-famous pastries. Her pies, danishes, and brownies are a regular favorite, and as usual, they went quickly. Not far from her booth, Tony’s Tacos served up breakfast burritos and made-toorder tacos that had a line forming early. Nearby, a cheerful lemonade stand offered multiple refreshing flavors that were much appreciated by attendees making their way through the park.
Farm-fresh eggs were available from Chris Loffler of Loffler Farms, who also brought locally raised chicken and various cuts of meat. Duck eggs made an appearance too, while other booths featured cookies, Filipino baked goods, and freeze-dried treats. Vendors offered a wide variety of handmade items including reusable water balloons, children’s toys, and crocheted crafts. One particularly eyecatching item was a tiny, crocheted chicken with a surprise egg inside—containing an even smaller crocheted chick.
The market also welcomed new vendors selling comic book decoupage art and custom- scented “freshies” for cars and homes. Familiar faces like Maxi’s Woodworking and Cliff’s patriotic red chile angel carvings brought a rustic charm to the event. Visitors could also find Celtic woven goods, watercolor cards, Acoma pottery, and handmade leather pouches, dice bags, and jewelry from longtime vendors.
The community spirit was strong, with representatives from New Mexico State University offering information about college opportunities and the Grants Animal Care Center introducing a sweet foster dog named Pippy while raising awareness about adoptions. Yard games were out for kids, and the City of Grants set out hay bales so guests could sit and enjoy the music while they sipped lemonade and watched the crowd.
Although July is still early in the produce season for Grants, marketgoers were still able to pick up a few early herbs and marigolds, and the Grants Farmers Market table stayed busy handing out flyers, shirts, and information about the SNAP and EBT benefits available for use at the market.
Through the Double Up Food Bucks program, those benefits can be matched to double the amount spent on fresh fruits and vegetables.
Despite the breeze, it was a beautiful Saturday morning filled with music, laughter, good food, and local pride. The Grants Farmers Market continues every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at City Hall Park, offering something new to discover each week.