Hayden farmers market celebrates Fall Fest

HAYDEN — Saturday’s Fall Fest at the Kootenai County Farmers Market in Hayden was “grandma and grandpa time” for Jim Perry, Shari Kane-Perry and their two grandchildren, Karson and Kenlee.  

“We love it,” Perry said. “When Karson was three, he used to call the Farmers Market ‘the party.’” 

Karson was right — Saturday’s Fall Fest was like a party, complete with live music, dozens of local vendors and pumpkin painting for the kids.  

Hundreds of people came out to enjoy the sunny, mild weather — perfect conditions for customers and vendors alike.  

“The last several years have been really busy,” said Cindy Weston, who was selling fresh goat cheese and other products from her family farm in Pinehurst, called TerraTopia. “Some days more than others, like today.” 

Scott Probert, who was selling produce from his Oldtown farm, Royal Highlands, described this year’s Fall Fest as “excellent.” 

“Being here lets us do what we love to do, which is grow real food,” Probert said. Probert added that one of the best parts of the farmers market is that almost all the produce for sale is grown within the same 40-mile radius.  

Farmers market season is not quite over yet — the final Hayden market is set for Oct. 19, a Harvest Fest will take place at Riverstone in Coeur d’Alene on Oct. 26, and the Winter Market will be at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds on Dec. 7.  

Karson, 7, and Kenlee, 4, watch hand-spun yarn being made by Garden Party Fibers at Saturday's Fall Fest in Hayden.