S.AT.U.R.D.A.Y Market creates a great connection for the community, farmers, tourists and businesses.  Vendors are welcome to set up once or every Saturday starting in July thru September.

Farmer’s Markets play a valuable role in promoting healthy local economics in communities.  They provide a viable economic opportunity for local residents to market their goods and create an accessible, social atmosphere for the community.

            Markets feature crafts, as well as produce, which encourage customers to support local artisans.  Markets have the potential to highlight what is unique about communities. 

            Farmer’s Markets provide an atmosphere that celebrates locally produced goods.  Markets encourage customers to spend money on locally produced goods, which keeps money in the community, thereby supplementing local economics.

            Shoppers see what is grown locally, meet the growers and artisans and crafters.  The ability to highlight the flavor and character of the local community is one of the great pluses of farmer’s markets.

            The market place provides community social benefits.  It is a gathering place for all ages to mingle, for neighbors to get to know one another, for vendors and customers to network and setting for education.

This year vendors are welcome to set up once or every Saturday starting July 12 thru Saturday, September 20 Festival Days weekend.  To participate, contact the Chamber, 265-4383.  The fee to set up is $50.00 for the summer's 11 markets or $10.00 each Saturday.  The market runs from 8 A.M. to noon at the Town Square and early birds are welcome. Each participants needs to bring what they need to conduct business: canopy, table, chairs etc.  No power is provided.

In recent years, the number of farmer’s markets throughout the us has grown significantly.   In 1998, the U.S. Department of Ag listed 2,746 farmers markets, up from 1,755 in 1994. The rise in the number of markets is thought to be due to the broad appeal they have.  The market offers a unique opportunity for consumers.    Today’s focus on healthy eating may also play a role in market growth and popularity.  Markets also have the potential to highlight what is unique about communities.  Shoppers at farmer’s markets have a chance to learn what is grown in the area; they also get see local crafters’ products and enjoy the treats of home baked goods.  The fact that markets are free helps to draw folks of all ages and income to the market.   

Markets have been around Montana for a while.  According to a study done by the Alternative Energy Resources Organization, MSU and Mt Department of Ag, Polson Montana ’s market has been going strong for at least 34 years.

There are two main benefits for local economies: the income made by vendors and the additional customer base brought to local businesses on market day.

            Vendor’s income, whatever the amount is likely to return to the local economy again and again.  The longer money stays in the local economy, the more overall economic value it has for the community. 

            When markets attract customers, local business has an opportunity to attract more business to their place of business on market day.

The market also serves as a social opportunity for the community. The festival nature of markets creates an enjoyable atmosphere to visit with friends and make new acquaintances.