Chris and Nita Taylor of Pleasant Valley Farm at the Carson Farmers Market in 2022.
With a new location this year, and entering its 15th year altogether, the Carson Farmers Market has been a personal journey for owner and market manager Breana Coons.
“This year will mark the fifth year of managing the market,” Coons told the Appeal. “For six years, I had the privilege of working alongside my grandmother, Linda Marrone, the previous market manager. During that time, I learned invaluable lessons about farming, supporting our local farmers and businesses and running the market smoothly. The experience paved the way for my deep passion for cooking and baking, which has only grown stronger since taking on this role.”
Established in 2008, the farmers market was previously held in a parking lot downtown. This season, the market will be held in the Marv Teixeira Pavilion at Mills Park. The market will run 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays from June 10 to Sept. 30. The new site address is 1111 E. William St. Pets are not allowed at the farmer’s market.
“This location offers numerous benefits that we are thrilled about,” said Coons. “First and foremost, the presence of shade, which has been the most requested feature by our community. Additionally, we are delighted to provide stick-built restrooms, eliminating the need for porta-potties. The park itself boasts abundant grassy areas, perfect for picnics and a pleasant atmosphere.”
The new location also has features like the Carson and Mills Park Railroad and the skate park, Coons noted.
“Parking availability is ample, addressing another common concern,” Coons said. “Looking ahead, the future changes planned for Mills Park will bring even more benefits to our market. We are excited to be part of this transformative journey within our city.”
In March, the Carson City Board of Supervisors approved the Mills Park Master Plan that calls for better road access, a splash park, a new playground, expansion of the existing skate park and a designated dog park.
More than park amenities, however, Coons sees the new location bringing the community together in important ways.
“Supporting our local farmers and businesses has become increasingly important to me over the years,” she said. “There is a sense of empowerment that comes from knowing the journey of our food, from seed to table. At our market, the farmers themselves are present, eagerly sharing their knowledge and stories. This direct connection allows us to appreciate the hard work, dedication and passion that goes into growing the food we purchase. It's an experience that simply cannot be replicated in a grocery store.”
Coons pointed to 11 new vendors this season — “from micro greens, mushrooms, crepes, charcuterie, baked goods, seafood, kids booth and a couple new artisans”— and described the market’s growth in both vendors and customers.
“Little did we know that our humble beginning of 20 farmers would blossom into 20 farmers and 40 other bakers, makers and other community businesses making it one of the most popular and beloved markets in our area,” she said. “The success of the Carson Farmers Market has resonated beyond our immediate community. Visitors from Reno, Dayton, Lake Tahoe and beyond are drawn to our market, bringing an economic boost to businesses in our area. Starting with only a few hundred shoppers each week and now serving over 1,000 shoppers, we are thrilled to see our market growing.”
Besides the economic benefit, Coons emphasized the social and health benefits of building relationships and “fostering a deeper connection with the food we consume.”
“Our farmers market is more than just a place to purchase fresh produce; it is a family-friendly event that brings our community together each weekend throughout the summer,” she said. “It serves as a hub for fostering relationships, supporting the local economy and promoting the values of sustainability and healthy living.”
Coons thanked the community for supporting the market.
“It is through your enthusiasm and patronage that we have been able to grow and thrive, and we are truly humbled by your continued dedication,” she said.
For information, visit https://carsonfarmersmarket.com/.