BRATTLEBORO -- Residents didn't have to wait long to stroll amid their favorite farmers and local producers.
Just a week after the Brattleboro Area Farmers' Market completed its annual six-month season, the Winter Farmers' Market at the Robert H. Gibson River Garden opened.
The Saturday morning event, sponsored by Post Oil Solutions, is an indoor bazaar beginning as soon as the weather turns cold. It offers all the same aspects of the popular outdoor market on Western Avenue, but with the added bonus of heating and no chance of rain.
According to POS co-manager Sherry Maher, this is the largest opening winter market to date with 31 vendors.
"It's a very good sign," she said. "I think it's a great indication of the support in the community for the market, and for people's desire for fresh, local food."
Now in its fourth year, organizers said it has grown larger every season to the point now where the space is filled to capacity. Post Oil began the project to raise awareness about sustainable practices for local homes, neighborhoods and community, as well as to begin creating the infrastructure necessary for a future world without petroleum products.
Farmers currently have a major vendor presence at the markets, and are expected to continue providing local produce at the weekly event into December. Everything from fresh kale from Amazing Planet! Farm & Justice Center in Williamsville to carrots from Walnut Ridge Farm in Putney are available
This is the third year John Miller of the Old Schoolhouse Plantery has appeared at the winter farmers' market. He and his wife run their operation in West Brattleboro, and attend the market to display the fruits of their labor.
"People get to see what we're trying to sell," he said. His business has expanded from house plants to heirloom vegetables to bring to the market.
Also available to the consumers are jars of local jams and jellies, baked goods and craft vendors.
The market also offers several different lunch options, including Thai, West African, Indian and Vietnamese. And for those with tired shoulders from carrying those heavy bags, a masseuse is available off to the side.
The market runs weekly in November and December on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Starting in January, the dates are as followed: Jan. 2, 16, 30, Feb. 13, 27 and March 13 and 27.
According to Maher, the winter event will host the holiday market on Dec. 12, which will feature the best local arts and crafts just in time for the season.
"So watch for details of special happenings with that one," said Maher. Other special events will take place in January (art show), March (CSA Fair) and a local nonprofit group display down the road, she added.
For more information and updates to the winter market, residents may contact POS organizers at 802-869-2141 or at farmersmarket@postoilsolutions.org.
Chris Garofolo can be reached at cgarofolo@reformer.com or 802-254-2311 ext. 275.
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