The Grant County Farmers Market starts up in Canyon City on Saturday, June 17, 2023.

CANYON CITY — The Grant County Farmers Market will begin its 2023 season on Saturday, June 17, at Park and Washington streets in Canyon City.

The market, which runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday from June 17 to Oct. 21, will feature a number of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, plants, food and apparel.

“It allows local producers or entrepreneurs to come and they can test their business ideas or products, and it allows them to have a place to sell directly to the community without having the overhead of a building,” said Jill Reeves of Canyon City, who is one of the organizers of the market.

Reeves said 30 vendors are expected for opening day. Harrison Ranch of Mt. Vernon will be among the vendors and will offer a variety of fresh produce, Reeves said. Slide Mountain Beef of Prairie City will sell fresh beef, she said.

Another new vendor is Schaefer Acres, which will offer fresh sourdough products such as cinnamon rolls, cookies, bagels and a variety of sourdough breads including chocolate, roasted garlic, jalapeño cheddar, orange cranberry and chocolate chip, Reeves said. Queen Bee Bagels and Bread will also be joining the roster, she said.

In conjunction with the ’62 Days Celebration in Canyon City on June 17, a variety of food vendors will serve fare such as hot dogs, chili dogs, nachos, maple bars, grilled cheese sandwiches and barbecue, among other items. Taco Co. will be present, and the Grant Union Wrestling Club will serve burgers, Reeves said.

“People will have access to locally produced products, and they get to support other small businesses in their community,” Reeves said. “I would say it’s very community-centered. We want it to be a place people coming through can see their friends. They can stop and talk. It’s not only a place for local communities to shop but also to gather and visit. It’s very family-friendly.”

On Oct. 20 and 21, the market will move to the Heritage Barn at the Grant County Fairgrounds as part of the Harvest Festival.

The market’s first season was held in 2010, Reeves said. It had been known as the John Day Farmers Market prior to the 2022 season, when it was renamed the Grant County Farmers Market.

Reeves said she welcomes members of the public to sell their homegrown vegetables or other goods at the market. To inquire about becoming a vendor, call 541-620-3152, email grantcofarmersmarket@gmail.com or visit www.grantcountyfarmersmarket.com on the internet. The Grant County Farmers Market can also be found on Facebook and Instagram.