Farmers Market returns for 21st season May 7

It's the surest sign of spring – flowers and fresh vegetables, all available from local farmers and merchants at the Birmingham Farmers Market, which this year returns for it's 21st season.

The market is open every Sunday, May 7 through October 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and is located in Public Parking Lot 6 at 660 North Old Woodward Avenue in downtown Birmingham.

This Sunday, May 7, will be the Opening Day Celebration, where the first 500 visitors will receive a free Birmingham Farmers Market tote bag, perfect to carry home purchased goodies. In addition, 50 lucky shoppers will receive a Birmingham Bucks gift card to use at participating retailers and restaurants in downtown Birmingham.

Families can enjoy Kids' Zone activities from the Birmingham YMCA and live entertainment from folk/blues artist Dave Boutette, and shop at almost 50 vendors for flowers, produce and plants.

There are also many other special events planned throughout the season.Visitors of all ages are invited to experience the outdoor market as they enjoy live music and shop for locally grown produce, artisan baked goods, fresh foods, plants and more.

Scheduled special events are May 7, annual Opening Day celebration; May 14, Second Sunday Fitness; June 11, Second Sunday Fitness; June 25, Super Farmer Day; July 9, Second Sunday Fitness; August 6, Corn Festival; August 13, Second Sunday Fitness; September 10, Harvest Festival; and October 29, End of Season Celebration.

The Birmingham Farmers Market offers Michigan-grown produce, subject to local growing patterns. Hopefully by late spring shoppers will find leafy greens, root vegetables, herbs, early organic vegetables, strawberries, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, beans, mushrooms, green onions, sugar peas and more.

With over 40 vendors each week, the Birmingham Farmers Market welcomes back long-standing favorites, including Farm and Forest, Freeman Meat Co., Fusilier Family Farms, Tracina's Gourmet Specialties, Sweetest Gourmet, Uhlianuk Farms, as well as new vendors, including Lily's Farm and Garden, Michigan Maple Farms, Tau Tea and Unwined Winery.

All parking in Birmingham is always free on Sundays.