Spring brings shoppers to farmers markets

As warmer weather makes its triumphant return to the area, so does another area spring staple: farmers markets.

The Cape Girardeau farmers market opened for the season April 21. Jackson's farmers market opened Tuesday, and the Cape Riverfront Market returns Saturday.

The number of vendors is up this year, so in addition to the familiar faces you've seen at farmers markets past, there will be some new additions. New vendors at the Cape Girardeau farmers market are selling grass-fed beef and organic produce. Among new vendors at the Cape Riverfront Market is Mary Jane Burgers and Brew from Perryville, Missouri, which will offer spices and sauces.

Farmers markets provide a unique experience to local shoppers. Not only can people find handmade or home-grown items, they can purchase their items knowing they are supporting local businesspeople. Not only that, but they also have a chance to get out in the sunshine and enjoy the weather as well as the company of the farmers market community.

The Cape Girardeau farmers market is open from noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays at West Park Mall, the Jackson farmers market from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays at the St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway, and the Cape Riverfront Market from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays in the Spanish Street lot.