Market-goers line up for the free trolley at NewBo City Market on June 7, 2014. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Market-goers line up for the free trolley ride at NewBo City Market on June 7, 2014. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

CEDAR RAPIDS – Many people shared their opinions about what they do and don’t like about the large-scale Downtown Farmers Market in Cedar Rapids after the first market of the season earlier this month.

Some people like the crowds; some don’t. Some enjoy seeing the dogs at the market; others say that’s an accident waiting to happen. Some enjoy the wide selection of items while others prefer markets that stick to fruits and vegetables.

If you’re among those who enjoy the bustle of the big market, you’ll be glad to know that the next one is this Saturday, June 21. And for those of you who prefer a smaller, less crowded venue, you can find more than  50 farmers markets on the Homegrown list.

One thing that baffled me during the first market was the trolley system. I couldn’t find where the trolley was downtown and the people who I thought would know didn’t have an answer. I eventually caught up with it at the NewBo City Market, where it makes a loop to downtown.

NewBo notes that the free trolley runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  as a way to experience both markets. More than 200 vendors will be on hand at the Downtown Farmers Market, selling produce, flowers, meats and cheeses, as well as artisan gifts. 

See photos from the first market and read more about this Saturday’s market, from the Cedar Rapids Metro Alliance:

Saturday’s theme is Safe Kids Day. The Safe Kids Coalition will be in Greene Square Park where there will be a fire engine and representatives providing information on preventing childhood injuries and accidents. The first 200 children in the park will be fitted for bike helmets, courtesy of the Coalition.

Alliant Energy is the Presenting Day Sponsor. Stop by their booth at the corner of Third Street and Second Avenue  (vendor stalls No. 126 and 127). Alliant representatives will be giving away a selection of energy-efficiency items, including furnace filter whistles, hot water testing cards, reusable market bags, and The Energy Explorer activity booklets and crayon sets for kids. There will also be Alliant Energy employees on hand at the booth, ready with useful tips to help customer keep their summer cooling bills in check.

Additional information can be found in the 2014 Interactive Downtown Farmers‘ Market Guide or visit www.crdowntownmarket.com.