The “Late Winter” Dane County Farmer’s Market started out 2020 in a new location, at Garver Feed Mill today. The beautifully renovated space is a great new home for the winter market and it was packed with interested shoppers this morning. Â
I love that we can get fresh, local greens and other goodies year round at the Dane County Farmer’s Market. Pictured above are the beautiful greens I brought home. I love knowing the farmers, their growing practices, and best of all trusting the quality of the food, and knowing I will not get sick from that baby romaine lettuce I purchased locally!
Although the new location does not feature the famous market breakfast, that did not deter the crowds one bit.  Ian’s Pizza was doing a healthy business early this morning, as was the bar selling bloody marys, screwdrivers, beer and wine. There was a line out the door at  Surya Cafe, and delicious aromas were wafting out of Ledger Coffee Roasters, making me want coffee as soon as I walked through the door on this chilly January morning.  Calliope Ice Cream had a sign out saying they would be open at 11:00, but given this morning’s early turnout, I would not be surprised if they decide to open earlier in coming weeks. I, for one, would partake in some of their delicious treats any time of day, maybe even a scoop with my morning coffee, affogato style! Â
One thing I noticed immediately upon arriving was that not only were people socializing and enjoying the atmosphere, they were also buying! In the past I always felt that many of the people at the winter market were really only there for the breakfast and socializing, and not really doing much purchasing from the farmers and producers. That did not appear to be the case this morning.
There was music at the south end of the communal space, and plenty of spots to sit and relax with friends for a bite or a beverage of choice. People were exploring the new space on both floors, and seemed to be really enjoying the experience. Â
The bike path was busy with bicyclists and pedestrians coming and going from the market, carrying green bags for their purchases. There is parking at the venue as well, however it is somewhat limited. You could also park along a side street or possibly in the north end of the lot at Olbrich Gardens and walk across the tracks to Garver.
I highly recommend making plans to join in the fun next week to see what’s new and exciting about the best farmer’s market in the nation! Â
