Customers stroll through the streets of downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on May 27, 2023, during the first Downtown Farmers Market of the season. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — While growers could use a good rain, the weather couldn’t have been better for the first Downtown Farmers Market of the season.

With sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s, thousands of customers filled the streets of downtown Cedar Rapids on May 27, for the market’s opening day.

Early season produce, such as asparagus and radishes, quickly sold out for many vendors, while long lines stretched around popular food stands.

The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, which hosts the markets — featuring 200 vendors — estimates attendance at each market at 12,000 people.

A quartet representing the Cedar Rapids Municipal Band was among the entertainment in Greene Square, while other performers entertained crowds throughout the venue.

The markets continue twice-monthly this summer, with the popular Market After Dark on Aug. 26 and one market in September.

Find more than 50 Eastern Iowa farmers markets on the Homegrown list and see more photos from opening day of the 2023 Downtown Farmers Market, below: