Farmers markets still get crowds despite record temperatures

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Local Farmer's markets in the area are a weekend staple for some people.

Rain or shine — or in this case, even in oppressive heat — vendors still set up shop and loyalists still come to buy.

Despite the heat and humidity, it was a crowd at the Broad Ripple Farmer's Market on Saturday morning.

Temperatures creeping up into the 100s didn't stop market enthusiasts from buying locally grown food.

“They have great things here at the Broad Ripple Farmer's Market. There's a lot to buy,” explains Beth Hannan, a market lover.

Market organizers prepared for the weather. They recommended shoppers show up early before the sun really started to beat down.

But even when the weather started heating up, the crowds still kept coming.

"I'm surprised we seem to have a really busy market today. It's certainly not one of our busiest markets but given how hot it is I think we have a good crowd and the vendors are doing well,” says Barbara Wilder, Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market master.

Some vendors were cashing in. Thanks to mother nature, frozen treats were the popular choice for buyers, explained Nicey Treat vendor Jeff Patrick.

“The people here are definitely buying so we've sold out quite a few flavors already,” Patrick said.

Vendors wanted to keep themselves as well as the crowds safe, so many decided to set out water stations throughout the market, even some for the four legged friends.

“We have a couple vendors who actually contacted me this week who wanted to bring water for the customers to make sure that everyone stayed hydrated,” says Wilder.

After suffering through the blaring sun, some shoppers had cooler plans in mind.

“We're going to the pool after this,” says Hannan.

The Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon.