Today is the day that lovers of fresh produce and homemade goods have been waiting for.

The Ironton Farmers Market opened today for its fourth year under the initiative of Ironton aLive and sponsorship of Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital. There will be a grand opening on Saturday with music from Kelley’s Bridge Band.

The market has grown leaps and bounds over these past four years and has demonstrated its value to the community by offering not only locally-sourced items, but also offering a place for people to gather together and enjoy downtown Ironton.

Several times a month, the farmers market hosts special activities for children and adults alike, from art classes, musical performances and a health fair, and, each month, a featured food is served free to the public.

The market also lends its space to other organizations and groups that host community events, like the bicycle rodeo coming up on Saturday, May 14, where children can get free helmets and have their bikes inspected for safety.

Ironton aLive has done a tremendous job in capitalizing on the market’s momentum from year to year and getting people to think locally. Let’s hope 2016 will be other success.

The market is open from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. each Friday and Saturday.