PORT TOWNSEND — Despite blustery wind and falling raindrops, crowds turned out with excitement on the opening day Saturday of the Port Townsend Farmers Market.
Rows of booths selling fresh, locally grown produce, plants, crafts and food lined Tyler Street where it intersects with Lawrence Street to kick off the 2006 season of the Farmers Market, the largest regular outdoor market west of Seattle.
Beginning at 9 a.m., market vendors provided local residents with what they’ve been anticipating all winter long.
Although the weather Saturday didn’t succeed in symbolizing spring in Port Townsend, the opening of the market did, and customers seemed willing to look past the gray day and enjoy the market’s festivities anyway.
“It’s so fun shopping in the rain,” said market-goer Kayla Boyd of Chimacum.
“I’m a big-time regular. The rain won’t stop me.”
Boyd said she’s been a vendor in the past and always looks forward to the kick off of the market season, whether she’s shopping or selling.
Although the rain did force many vendors not quite prepared for the wet weather to close early, most reported good sales and felt enthusiastic that the market has again opened for the summer.
“It’s great to be back,” said Lana Byal of Sequim-based Nash’s Produce.
“We’ve had a really supportive crowd.”
