Markets feature sweet taste of summer

The smell of fresh fruit and vegetables mingles with the sweet perfume of spring to herald the arrival of Carson Valley's farmers markets.

Minden and Gardnerville each have their own market, with their own flavors.

The Esmeralda farmers market kicks off the season in downtown Minden 4 p.m. Tuesday, featuring fresh fruits and vegetables from Northern California growers.

A German dinner with hot dogs, bratwurst, German wine and beer, pretzels and other snacks will also be available. Lira's Market will have tri-tip sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, and ice cream. Margarita Man will be providing the margaritas.

Minden merchants, Tumblewind Antiques, Lone Tree Frame and Gallery and Barone & Reed will be open for the evening.

The Lampe Park farmers market starts 8 a.m. Wednesday.

Farmer's market organizer Jana Fuller said the Lampe Park market offers fresh goods as they come available.

"It starts with strawberries and cherries and then peaches and oranges and then moves into the garlic, onions, green beans and brocolli," Fuller said.

She said every week the market has a spot for a nonprofit organization, such as the Douglas Animal Welfare Group, voter registration and the Family Support Council. She also has vendors such as Sagebrush Soap Co. and V&A Honey returning.

"I try to keep it a farmers market with food, farm or dirt-oriented products," she said.

For information, call 782-9829.

The market offers fresh produce as well as plants, fresh bakery items, homemade gifts; outdoor decor, health products and other things.

The Lampe Park market is presented by the Douglas County Parks & Recreation Department.

Both markets will operate weekly through September.