It was a picture-perfect Opening Day at the Market May 7. The sky was clear and the sun was bright; the temperature warmed with every hour. The tulips were blooming along Riley Park’s Grand River fence, and the Sundquist Pavilion was spotless. Everything was ready.

Just before 9 a.m., a color guard from American Legion Walker Groves Post of Farmington marched into the Market, followed closely by a large contingent of percussionists from Farmington High School. 

WDIV 4 meteorologist Paul Gross took over as emcee and introduced radio host Chris Ayotte who delivered a fine rendition of our National Anthem. 

Farmington Mayor Pro-Tem Joe LaRussa talked about the importance of the Market to the city. He was followed by Kim Guesman, chief nursing assistant from Beaumont Health, who was greeted with warm applause for all her efforts during the covid pandemic. She spoke of maintaining a healthy approach to life.

Next came Amanda Shreve, executive director of the Michigan Farmers Market Association, followed by Noelle Nachreiner, executive director of the Michigan Ag Council. Their participation underscored the important role farmers markets play in keeping the community healthy. It’s a concept reflected in this year’s market slogan: Come to Market — for the health of it.

Shreve and Nachreiner then joined forces to ring the market bell, official opening the market. With that the drumline and color guard withdrew, and by 9:15 the Farmington Farmers Market was open for business for its 29th season.