The Bloomington Farmers Market was by far one of the most interesting experiences I have ever had. Everyone was so friendly and happy to be selling or buying fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade crafts, and fresh baked goods. I don't know that I have ever seen so much community action in one place. Even though the Market was split into three sections everything and everyone flowed together.

The first section we walked into was the many rows of fruits and vegetables. There were a lot of farmers there selling their produce and flowers, all of which grew they grew themselves. This area was full of eager customers and a surprising amount of children. The excitement that the children displayed was one of the most surprising parts for me. Normally kids aren't super happy around fruits and veggies but these kids acted as if they were at a fair.

The next section we decided to explore was the arts and crafts area. This area was a craft fair that happens once a month at the Bloomington Farmers Market. There were so many intriguing tents full of outstanding artwork; most of which that was made by people that live no more than an hour away. There was a fountain in the corner that attracted several families and small children that wanted to play in the water. Everyone was very accepting and happy to see all of the guests.

The last area that we visited was the baked goods area. As soon as you walked near it the smell of fresh bread was overwhelming. There were so many vendors making gourmet food to sell to the general public. One of my personal favorites was the crepes. I had a BLT crepe and it wasn't like the typical crepes I had at home. I was actually able to taste the freshness of the vegetables. Crepes were not the only fresh made foods available though. There were vendors serving fresh coffee, tamales, and even cooking whole pizzas right there on the spot. Everyone eating had a smile on their face because it was impossible not to. Throughout all three of these sections there were a few musical acts. Nothing more than some talented guitar and drum players, but even though there were only a few they made all of the difference. Because of the rain, there were not as many musicians as there normally are, but the few that were there caught the attention of many shoppers and made the Farmers Market experience that much more enjoyable.

This farmers market is such a great way to bring the community of Bloomington together. This city is so diverse with different ethnicities, ages, and races, but all of these differences can come together in one spot and enjoy the gift of fresh food together. In many ways the Market was just like participatory music events. Just like in musical events, all different ages, classes, and ethnicitites were able to come together and share their excitement without being embarrassed. Everyone at the farmers market, no matter how old was expected to participate, and everyone actually did. Granted there were very limited amounts of singing and dancing, everyone instead was able to buy fresh produce and learn about farming and growing foods together. Much like participatory music, everyone was having a great time, not even the pouring rain could stop this event from coming together beautifully.

The Bloomington Farmers Market has made me rethink how I want to live not only my life, but how I want to raise my family. I want my kids to show the same enthusiasm for fresh produce and hand made crafts as those children did today, all while helping the local farms.

Below is a map of the farmers market.