Diego Lopez, Editor
CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. — The Grants Farmers Market is ready to bloom once again, officially kicking off its 2025 season on Saturday, May 3, at Fire and Ice Park.
Open every Saturday through October from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the market is set to feature a vibrant mix of plant starts, locally grown produce, farm-fresh eggs, handcrafted goods, and family-friendly activities — all designed to bring the community closer to the people who grow, raise, and create right here in Cibola County.
While produce offerings will be light early in the season due to lingering frost and cool temperatures, Market Manager Siobhan Archibald said visitors can expect a strong showing of plant starts ready for home gardens. Vendors like Tumbleweed Farms, owned by Jason and Natalia Elliott, will bring locally hardened tomato, pepper, squash, and other seedlings — perfect for those hoping to grow their own food at home.
“We open early in the season mainly for the plant starts,” Archibald explained. “If you're looking for something grown locally and suited to our climate, this is the place to find it.'
The market currently has about 30 registered craft vendors, and roughly three produce vendors, with more expected as the summer growing season ramps up. Locally raised eggs, homemade baked goods, and artisan crafts will be staples throughout the season.
Supporting Local and Doubling Your Dollars A major highlight of the Grants Farmers Market is its participation in the SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks program. Shoppers who use SNAP (EBT) benefits can swipe their cards at the market manager's table and receive tokens to use with eligible vendors. Thanks to the Double Up Food Bucks program, every dollar withdrawn is matched — meaning $10 withdrawn becomes $20 to spend, with half specifically designated for fresh fruits and vegetables.
“This is a full state program that helps promote healthy eating in New Mexico,” Archibald said. “It really stretches the food budget for families while supporting local farmers.'
In addition to SNAP, the market accepts WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits. Participants can receive farmers market cards loaded with funds to spend on produce at the market.
Vendor Opportunities Open
Vendors selling homemade or homegrown items are welcome to join the market. Homegrown produce and farm-raised eggs vendors can set up for free, while craft and baked goods vendors pay a small fee of $5 per Saturday or can opt for a $25 annual city permit.
The market requires that all goods be handmade or homegrown. Applications are available at Future Foundations Family Center, the Grants Recreation Center, or through the Grants Farmers Market Facebook or Instagram pages. Vendors can also reach out by emailing farmersmarket@grantsnm.gov.
Children 12 and under are invited to participate as well, setting up for free if they are selling homemade goods, such as crafts or lemonade.
More Than Shopping — A Community Event
The Grants Farmers Market is about more than just buying and selling. Live acoustic music will be featured on Saturdays (played at a friendly volume to avoid overwhelming the vendors), and yard games and occasional bouncy houses will add a festive atmosphere for families. The market is also partnering with groups like Future Foundations and the Grants Recreation Center to promote youth gardening programs, allowing kids to learn how to plant, harvest, and sell produce.
“We really see the market as a community event,” Archibald said. “It’s a way to keep that small-town vibe alive — neighbor meeting neighbor, building relationships, and supporting each other.'
Shoppers from across Cibola County and neighboring areas — from Fence Lake to Gallup — are welcome.
“Even if you’re just coming by to enjoy the atmosphere, that's fine,” Archibald added. “The important thing is building community.”
Special Event Coming May 10
On May 10, the market will also celebrate Migratory Bird Day with the help of rangers from El Malpais and El Morro National Monuments, offering free educational activities and crafts for children.
Archibald encouraged the public to follow the Grants Farmers Market Facebook page for weekly updates, special events, and photos throughout the season. She also noted that those interested in selling specialty food products like salsa or jerky should coordinate with the New Mexico Department of Health regarding necessary permits.
The Grants Farmers Market is an all-community effort, offering a tangible way for residents to support Cibola’s farmers, ranchers, bakers, and artisans — and keep the local economy growing strong.