Boulder's farmers market voted one of nation's best

In the midst of the maze of booths and people, CU students Caroline Stewart and Laura Williams sit in the shade of tree watching the hundreds of market goers passing by. They visit the Boulder Farmers Market on a weekly basis, sometimes just to enjoy the scenery. "I really like coming because it's a chance to get outside, and I really enjoy people watching," Stewart said.

But their faces lit up when they found out that Boulder's market was voted one of the nation's best by Livability Magazine. "That's great," Williams said. Some of the main criteria the magazine considered were the number of vendors, the variety of agricultural products and the arts and crafts fair offered to the public. Boulder ranked high in all categories, and the "sustainability and availability of local food" also played a role in the town's ranking as one of the best to live in.

Another important feature of the market is that the money spent there funnels into the local economy. "It's a growers-only market," said Executive Director Bob D'Alessandro. "The market is controlled by farmers, Boulder County farmers as a matter of fact."

The live music brings a festiveness to the event, and it's one Boulder local's favorite part of the market. "One of my friend's is a Marimba's player," said market patron Elain Leass. "I love dancing and it's such an upbeat experience."

In addition all the organic foods offered are a healthy alternative to a typical weekend diet. "I try to get at least a couple vegetables and fruits," Caroline said.

In the end you can see why the Boulder's Farmers Market is so popular within the community, appealing to people of all ages and even those visiting from out of town.

One Georgia fan in town for the weekend's football showdown said, "Everything is so delicious. I've never had this much fun on the road before."