Havre's Saturday Market about to start at Town Square

Havre Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting people to shop, and sell, at this year’s Saturday Market, which starts Saturday in Havre’s Town Square.

“It is time to start thinking about the market,” a release from the Chamber said. “Many are already tending to their gardens for that great local produce, crafters are readying their inventory and bakers are checking their supplies for the preparation of those great home baked treats.”

The market has become a tradition, with the Chamber organizing the market in which people can sell local produce, artwork, crafted items and more.

The release said that all area gardeners, bakers and crafters are extended an invitation to participate.

“The market is growing each year,” the release said, adding that, last year, on average, close to 35 vendors set up each weekend.

“Many of the vendors will be returning this summer, and the Chamber has already had inquiries from new folks interested in participating,” the release said.

People can participate as often as they like, the release added, saying vendors are welcome to set up once or every Saturday starting July 8 through Festival Days weekend, with the last market Saturday, Sept. 16.

To participate, the release said, people should contact the Chamber at 406-265-4383 or via email at [email protected].

The market runs from 8 a.m. to noon at Town Square each Saturday.

“Shoppers see what is grown locally and they meet the growers and artisans and crafters,” the release said. “Markets feature crafts, as well as produce, which encourage customers to support local artisans. Markets encourage customers to spend money on locally produced goods, which keeps money in the community, thereby supplementing local economics.”

The release added that each vendor needs to bring what they need to conduct business, such as a canopy, table, chairs and so on.

The fee to set up at Saturday Market is $220 for the run of the market, July 8 to Sept. 9, or $20 for one-time attendees. Limited electrical power is available for an additional $10 per week. Festival Days Fee is $30 for non-chamber members and $20 for Havre Chamber members.

Town Square parking lot is reserved for the market from 6 a.m. to noon.

“Farmers markets play a valuable role in promoting healthy local economics in communities,” the release said. “They provide a viable economic opportunity for local residents to market their goods and create an accessible, social atmosphere for the community.”

“Saturday Market creates a great connection for the community, farmers, tourists and businesses,” the release added. “It is an important part of the community; it provides a safe, healthy, weekly event in the downtown neighborhood. The market is enjoyed by many — from families to travelers passing through or visiting Havre. The market place provides community social benefits. It is a gathering place for all ages to mingle, for neighbors to get to know one another, for vendors and customers to network.”