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Building Colorado’s First Year Round Indoor Market Together

Why We Added the Summer Markets

For nearly twenty years, the Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market has been a steady gathering place for local food, makers, and community. As we look ahead to becoming Colorado’s first year‑round indoor market, adding a summer season is a natural next step. This expansion isn’t just about growing our calendar, it’s about strengthening the connections, opportunities, and local food systems that have shaped the Market since the beginning.

1. The community asked for it

Shoppers and vendors had been asking for more chances to connect outside the winter season. The Summer Markets grew directly out of that request, giving everyone a way to stay connected to local food and makers all year.

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2. To support newer and emerging vendors

Many small producers and makers struggle to access traditional regional markets. The Summer Markets create more openings for newer vendors to get visibility, build a customer base, and grow at a pace that fits them.

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3. To create continuity between seasons

The Winter Market has a strong following, and adding a summer season keeps that momentum going instead of pausing for half the year. It supports vendors, keeps shoppers engaged, and strengthens the Market’s year‑round presence.

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4. To offer a comfortable indoor option during the hottest months

The Summer Markets are intentionally held indoors, giving shoppers a cool, comfortable place to buy fresh food and local goods during peak heat — something unique in Colorado.

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5. To strengthen Northern Colorado’s local food system

By adding six Summer Markets from May through October, the Market supports farmers, ranchers, and food producers during their busiest growing and harvesting months, helping stabilize and expand the local food economy.

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6. To build toward becoming Colorado’s first year‑round indoor market

The Summer Markets are a key step in the long‑term vision: transforming the Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market into a fully year‑round indoor market.

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