VALLEY — The South Fork and Creede Farmers Markets are busy lining up exciting seasons for 2017. This year, South Fork Farmers Market is expanding to two days, Thursdays and Saturdays, and has a new location at the South Fork Visitor Center at the intersection of Highways 149 and 160. The market runs from June 10 – Sept. 2 from 12- 4 p.m. on Thursdays and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturdays.   

Creede Farmers Market launches on Memorial Day weekend, running from May 26 – Sept. 3 on Fridays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 23 Main Street, (the Days of ‘92 mining area behind Basham Park). Sundays on busy holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day also may be added to Creede’s market calendar.

Both markets accept SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks, which doubles the value of federal nutrition (SNAP or food stamps) benefits spent at participating markets, helping participants bring home more healthy fruits and vegetables and supporting area farmers.

Vendors selling produce, other food items, crafts and antiques are still invited to register for a booth on a weekly, monthly or other basis. Vendors can find registration information and the necessary forms atwww.southforkfarmersmarket.com  and www.creedefarmersmarket.com.  The markets also are seeking sponsors and people and organizations willing to offer activities, entertainment, unique animals, educational programs, etc.

For more information, contact Karen Miller, who has been coordinating the South Fork Farmers Market since 2014 and started the Creede Farmers Market last year. She also serves on the board of directors of the Colorado Farmers Market Association and can be reached at 719.873.5466 or [email protected]. Or contact Ed Vita at [email protected].