Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - With a rousing chorus of "Happy Birthday," the Old Town Farmers' Market celebrated its fourth season in Zona Romantica this past Saturday. Visitors and vendors gathered around, filling the popular south side neighborhood with smiles and laughter. Charlotte Semple, the Market's Founder and Director, was on hand to take the ceremonious "bite" out of the chocolate cake which was bursting with berries and topped with vanilla icing.

Photos by Ric Chamblee

"The Market brings life to the area, and if it includes music, that's all the better," says Bob Gil, a local musician who plays at the Market with Bobby Tansen and his band.

"We love the Market. It brings people from all over the world to this beautiful downtown area," says Angelica Soto Aceves, who owns a Basilio Badillo kiosk.

While the Old Town Farmers' Market has always been the ideal place to select fresh produce, baked goods, and one-of-a-kind home décor, it has also served as an experimental venue for up and coming entrepreneurs. The Market's primary goal has been to provide a venue for local artisans to try out their business ideas with minimal expense.

"It's been a great opportunity for entrepreneurs, and many are now able to support their families," says Mark McCoy, a Vendor Selection Committee member. "The Market brings employment to the area. Plus, it's a tremendous tourist attraction for the south side."

And what a tourist attraction it has been! In February, more than 5,000 visitors a week shopped their way through 90 "producer only" exhibits. While all vendors have been profitable, there are those who have been wildly successful, even opening stores in the Vallarta area. These include Arte y Ceramic, Banderas Soap Blends, Chef George's Home Made Products, Color Pod, Golden Hands Massage, and The Leek and Thistle Pie Company.

"Our vendors started with a couple of products and a few banners, and then all of a sudden, they were expanding," says Bill Hegelund, a Detroit native and part-time Vallarta resident. He joined the team of Market Volunteers in 2010 and has been a vital part of the weekly efforts ever since. "It makes you feel good that they [the vendors] are doing so well in this venue. They have more shoppers here in one day than they would have in a month selling from a store front."

Congrats to the vendors and volunteers of the Old Town Farmers' Market.

Come see what all the excitement is about at the Old Town Farmers' Market. Located along Basilio Badillo between Olas Altas and Ignacio Vallarta, this "make it, bake it, grow it" Market is open from 9:30 am to 2 pm from the first Saturday in November to the last Saturday in May. For more information, visit the Market website at OldTownFM.com, or its Facebook page: Old Town Farmer’s Market Puerto Vallarta.

Click HERE to learn more about the Puerto Vallarta Old Town Farmers' Market.