GRANTS, N.M. — Sunshine, fresh eggs, and the smell of homemade jerky greeted early risers at City Hall Park on Saturday, where the Grants Farmers Market saw its largest turnout yet this season — with 43 vendors participating.
From locally raised eggs and rancher-made jerky to plant starts, handcarved wooden planters, and Acoma pottery, the offerings at this week’s market reflected the growing variety and energy the event has come to represent. Colorful tables brimmed with hand-crafted goods, including painted garden art, Southwest-inspired ornaments, and decorated clay pots.
Among the familiar faces was Rochelle McKowen, the now-retired owner of the beloved First Street Café. Her homemade pies — flaky, golden, and filled with fruit — drew an eager crowd.
Also popular were vendors selling homemade crafts, including intricately painted pottery and rustic wooden planters, perfect for anyone looking to decorate their porch or garden with locally made goods.
Beyond the crafts and produce, the Grants Farmers Market continues to make a major impact through its participation in the SNAP/EBT program. Shoppers using their EBT (food stamp) cards can swipe them at the market’s booth and receive tokens to spend on qualifying food — including eggs, jerky, baked goods, and even plant starts that grow food at home.
The market also participates in the Double Up Food Bucks program, which matches every dollar withdrawn — giving up to twice the value for fresh fruits and vegetables.
“We always want to remind people: if you’ve got EBT, you can shop here — and we’ll double your produce dollars,” said Archibald. “That’s real money back in your pocket, and it supports local farmers and ranchers at the same time.”
The market also accepts WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits, continuing its mission to make healthy, local food accessible to all.
The Grants Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at City Hall Park through October. Updates, vendor spotlights, and reminders are posted regularly on the Grants Farmers Market Facebook page.
For vendor information or questions about benefit programs, email farmersmarket@grantsnm. gov.