Keep It Local This Winter in Albuquerque: An Interview with Downtown Growers’ Winter Market Manager Kat Cannella

The Downtown Growers’ Market (DGM) in Albuquerque is the longest running farmers’ market in the city, entering 30 years this year. The market takes place at Robinson Park during its regular operating season, however, for the past eight years, the DGM has worked to offer a Winter Market opportunity in downtown for vendors and customers alike. This year the DGM added three Winter Market dates, returning to FUSION Downtown for a joint indoor/outdoor shopping experience. We were able to catch up with Kat Cannella who manages the Downtown Growers’ Winter Market to learn more about what to expect and what you’ll find this time of year!

What has been the motivation for offering a Winter Market? 

The Winter Market has been a way to support a year-round farmers’ market in the downtown area which is available to all who can be there. The DGM season runs from April through November and operating January through March allows us to offer a space where the community can continue supporting local producers, makers, and food creators. We had a good response last year and plenty of people said they’d love to see it return. Another motivation is creating a familiar market, but in the winter, so people can continue to access the things they need. I talked to several people last year who were so happy to be able to still come and get eggs, meat, and fresh vegetables in the winter. A lot of people were happy to come and pick up their bread and sweet treats. People were happy to see their favorite artisans; it was a nice vibe!

What kinds of products can customers expect to find? 

Customers can expect to find mushrooms, greens such as leafy and cooking greens, microgreens, and possibly some winter root vegetables. We’ll have eggs and meat, along with honey and flowers. We’ll have a nice mix of beverages with chai, tea, matcha, and lemonade. We’ll have a few new bakery vendors coming in, along with familiar faces. We’ll have prepackaged goodies. I’m truly looking forward to all the food and beverages, lol. We have a healthy mix of wellness vendors, along with artisans such as jewelry, pottery, art, apparel, and so much more! Folks will just have to come check us out to see what’s going on!

The Winter Market takes place at FUSION in Downtown Albuquerque, tell us about the space and what you’re most excited about this year? 

Yes, huge thanks to FUSION for letting us come back for a second year! With FUSION, we have an indoor/ outdoor setup. People can expect to see vendors in the Lobby, 708, and the Meadow! We have more vendors to accommodate this year so I’m looking forward to creating a nice flow within the space. We’ll make good use of the Meadow (outside) with growers, prepared foods & beverages, and artisans. Customers will be able to find more artisans inside the Lobby and 708, plus the bar will be open! FUSION also does a great job adding to the vibe by playing music throughout the campus. I personally love good background music (family friendly of course). We welcome dogs, on a leash of course.

Anything else customers should know before they stop by? 

Parking is not perfect, BUT don’t let that stop you. Once you’re parked, it’ll be worth it to come in, shop around, have a seat and a nice bite to eat. We’ll be open from 10am-1pm and we’ll be looking for you!

Downtown Growers’ Winter Market

Second Saturdays: January 10, February 14, March 14, 2025

10am – 1pm

FUSION: 708 1st St. NW

Albuquerque, NM 87102