The Royal Gorge Farmers Market is back for its second season, bringing fresh produce, local artisans, food vendors, live entertainment, and family fun to Gateway Depot Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday through Sept. 19, with a special Fall Harvest Market on Oct. 10.

Hosted by the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance in partnership with the Fremont Economic Development Corp., the market has quickly become a favorite community tradition, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to shop locally while supporting farmers, makers, and small businesses from throughout the region.

“We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another great season,” said Brenda McKay, Royal Gorge Farmers Market Coordinator. “The market is more than a place to shop — it’s a place where neighbors gather, visitors discover our community, and local businesses have the opportunity to grow.”

Shoppers can expect a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh baked goods, specialty foods, handcrafted gifts, home décor, jewelry, and artisan products. Live music and rotating food vendors will add to the festive atmosphere each week.

Throughout the season, the market will also feature several special events, including Paws in the Plaza: A Pet & Produce Event, Colorado Day Celebration, Support FFA & 4-H Day, National Farmers Week, Health & Wellness Day, and the Fall Harvest Market, offering additional activities and community engagement.

The Royal Gorge Farmers Market welcomes both residents and visitors to experience the best of Fremont County while enjoying one of downtown Cañon City’s most popular summer events.

Vendor opportunities remain available throughout the season. Local businesses and organizations are also invited to participate as sponsors. Link for Vendor opportunities: https://marketspread.com/market/30698/royal-gorge-farmers-market/apply/7323/

For more information, visit www.royalgorgechamberalliance.org or follow the Royal Gorge Farmers Market on Facebook for weekly updates, featured vendors, and entertainment schedules.

High Country Bank, Salida, Colorado, and FHLBank Topeka will award $10,000 to the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office’s donation effort in Florence. High Country Bank stepped up to provide $2,500 to support the communities they serve. They also received a 3-to1 matching grant of $7,500 through FHLBank Topeka’s Community Assistance Recovery Effort Program.

The funds will be used to assist the livestock and large animal evacuation center for the Aspen Acres fire. Funds will be used to help buy needed supplies, such as grass, hay, high visibility vests, traffic cones, safety goggles, poultry feed and feeders, and pelleted horse feed.

“One of the greatest strengths of community banking is the ability to connect local needs with meaningful resources. Thanks to the FHLBank Topeka’s CARE grant program, we’re proud to support Pathfinder Park and the important work they’re doing to help our neighbors recover from the Aspen Acres Fire,” said Niki Stotler, President and CEO of High Country Bank. “This is what community partnership looks like.”

As one of the longest tenured members of FHLBank Topeka since 1936, High Country Bank has access to products and services to help its community thrive. The CARE Program was created in 2025 to help FHLBank member financial institutions support their communities after a FEMA-declared disaster. The program matches $3 for every $1 up to $75,000 when an FHLBank member contributes to disaster relief efforts.

“Community financial institutions are at the forefront of supporting their communities through difficult times. We designed the CARE Program to amplify the contributions our members are making when a natural disaster occurs,” said Jeff Kuzbel, President and CEO of FHLBank Topeka. “We are proud to support High Country Bank’s efforts.”