Opening day of the Downtown Farmers' Market is Saturday, May 10, 2008 from 7 a.m. - noon located in the Historic Court Avenue District in Downtown Des Moines.

The Downtown Farmers' Market will offer delicious spring greens, herbs, and a variety of spring produce early on in the season.  Vegetable and herb plants will be in abundance, as well as hanging floral baskets, bedding plants and perennials.  Market patrons can expect to see nearly 200 vendors, from 47 Iowa counties, with farm fresh products including Iowa raised pork, beef, lamb, poultry, fish, elk, baked breads, pies and cinnamon rolls.  Shoppers will also find nuts, eggs, butter, cheese, wine, jams, jellies, beautiful cut flowers, unique hostas and a vast assortment of locally created arts, crafts, jewelry, rugs, and clothing.

New for 2008, in effort to support the cohesive market community, the Market will officially open at 7 a.m. Market patrons will not be able to make purchases before 7 a.m. with this new enforced rule.

"This new rule is focused on safety for both our vendors and market customers," explains Kelly Foss, Downtown Farmers' Market director.  "Starting at 7 a.m. will give our vendors ample time to get their booths set up and ready for the opening of the market."

The Downtown Farmers' Market continues to be a dog friendly market.  This year we are introducing "Dog Etiquette Guidelines" for our four legged friends to help ensure safety and health at the market.  The Market, at times, can get hot and very busy and is not the best place to bring a pet.  If patrons do choose to bring their dogs, we ask that they adhere to these six rules to make everyone's market experience a pleasant one.

Dog Etiquette Guidelines

1. Dogs must be under control on a short leash, and by the owner's side at all times, (max 3ft leash while within the market).

2. Dogs need to be kept away from produce, plants and prepared food products.

3. Dogs need to be sociable with other dogs and children to earn the right to be at the market.

4. Be understanding - not everyone is a dog lover.

5. Please clean up after your dog.

6. The Downtown Farmers' Market enforces The City of Des Moines laws regarding pets which include a lease law not to exceed six feet, clean up of droppings, current tags and a current rabies certificate.  Pamphlets further explaining The City of Des Moines Animal Licensing and Regulations can be picked up at our Downtown Farmers' Market Information booth located at the corner of 4th and Court.  Market Management reserves the right to ask any pet owner not willing to adhere to these rules to leave the Market.

The charm of the Downtown Farmers' Market is that each Saturday is a different experience. Kids can participate each Saturday in agricultural and nature-related activities at the "Earn your PhB" booth, sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred, which offers informative and imaginative seasonal activities like planting herbs and making pet rocks.

Live music at the Market has become a tradition and the 2008 Market is packed full of entertainment.  The entertainment line-up includes an eclectic mix of live music by local musicians, jugglers, mimes, stilt walkers, and a few surprises along the way.

For those looking for the perfect gift for their favorite Farmers Market enthusiast, Downtown Farmers Market merchandise is available.  Merchandise includes colorful market shopping bags and gift certificates. The certificates are a great gift idea or can be purchased by companies to be used for employee recognition or awards.  They are available in both one and five dollar increments, and can be purchased at the Market or by calling (515) 286-4911 or mkotval@downtowndesmoines.com.

The Downtown Farmers' Market, presented by Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. and organized by the Downtown Community Alliance, will open Saturday, May 10 and will continue every Saturday morning, rain or shine, from 7 a.m. to noon, through Oct. 25, 2008.