Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - On Saturday December 10th, Pino Suarez between B. Badillo and V. Carranza came to life with the sights and sounds of a good old fashioned market. City officials, presidents from the three Emiliano Zapata business and neighbors associations, vendors, tourists and local residents were on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony to launch the Old Town Farmer's Market - Tianguis Cultural in its' new location on the street of Pino Suarez.

Market founder, Charlotte Semple, thanked the many officials, volunteers and community supporters who have worked diligently for the past three years to assist in the creation and development of the Market. Then, with the assistance of Terecita, a student at the school, the opening bell was rung and an enthusiastic crowd flooded into the Market.

After browsing the more than 50 Vendors on the street, market visitors relaxed in the food court at the communal tables where they visited old friends, made new ones and listened to the live music provided by Eduardo Leon. The Market's food court offers even more delectable choices: seafood paella, tacos al pastor, burritos, Quesadillas, tamales, BBQ sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, coffee, fresh juices and agua frescas.

Now in its 3rd season, the Old Town Farmers Market-Tianguis Cultural is Puerto Vallarta's only "producers" market, where all of the local Vendors make it, bake it, grow it and sell it. You will find a great selection of local fresh farm produce, artisan foods, unique arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, services and community education. Recent additions include fresh squeezed juices, moles, jams, original clothing and purse designs, a chiropractor and a massage therapist. Be sure to come each week to check out the newly added vendors.

Charlotte was recently presented with an award from the Old Town Vallarta Business and Neighbors Association for her dedication in the creation of the Market. At the ceremony Charlotte spoke of her 20 year commitment to the principles of social entrepreneurship where business principals are used to support social and community projects. Charlotte's previous awards include Victoria's Business Woman of the Year, YWCA's Women of Distinction, the Beta Sigma Phi Woman of the Year, and Lifetime Honorary Rotary Ann for the founding of the Victoria Women in Need Society.

The Old Town Farmers Market-Tianguis Cultural is located on calle Pino Suarez between V. Carranza and B. Badillo, and inside El Jardin de Niños Emiliano Zapata. Hours are every Saturday from 9:30 am to 2 pm from November to May. Plenty of parking is available at the Lazaro Cardenas parkade adjacent to the school.