The Farmers’ Market kicked off on May 1 as locals came to San Benito Street in Hollister to browse the vendors’ offerings and catch up with friends and family.

“It was really nice to see something big going on in Hollister and to see the community together,” said local Yarely Gonzalez.

Though the market is one block shorter this year, a variety of booths offer products including fresh produce, flowers, artisan soaps and succulent planters. Food vendors have offerings including kettle corn and tri-tip sandwiches.

“The Hollister Farmers’ Market is a wonderful way to introduce my soap to the community,” said Becky Thompson of San Benito Soap Works. “It’s also good for people to be able to socialize, especially with so many people commuting. It introduces people to local businesses.”

Thompson isn’t the only vendor excited about the market’s return to downtown. Jose Reynoso owns a small, family-run farm in Salinas called Bay Fresh Berry Producer. He said events like the Hollister Farmers’ Market allow him to expand his business and take pride in offering customers fresh produce.

“We’ve been doing this market since it opened and was very small,” Reynoso said, adding that he sells “a fresh product we just picked today. It also gives the customer a chance to taste the product. It’s a win-win.”

Looking upon the crowd, Gonzalez said, “It really makes the town come alive.”

The Hollister Farmers’ Market happens every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. through Sept. 25.

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