Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - Just two weeks away from opening day, the Old Town Farmers' Market-Tianguis Cultural team and vendors are busting at the seams, ready to announce one of the biggest achievements in our Market history.

We are moving! That's right. After four years of working with the city, we're delighted to announce that the OTFM-TC will now be found in Lazaro Cárdenas Park, which is located in the heart of the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood. But not to worry, as you'll still be able to find your favorite producers, entertainers and services.

In fact, you're invited to our ribbon cutting ceremony at 9:30 am on Saturday, November 2. We'll be serving hot coffee and Pan de Muertos, a sweet, buttery, Day of the Dead favorite. Then, shop and socialize to your heart's content. Over 80 vendors will be selling local produce, homemade salsas, organic coffee, artisan chocolate, fresh cheese, handcrafted jewelry, Mexican whiskey, refreshing beverages and delicious prepared foods to take home.

But the OTFM-TC isn't your average farmers' market. No, this Puerto Vallarta attraction honors the longtime tradition of Mexican tianguis. Tianguis - outdoor markets - have been around long before the conquistadors stepped foot onto this continent. Thousands of tianguis existed in communities both great and small. But with the advent of supermarket chains, producer markets faced extinction. That is until a "back to the land" movement revitalized their existence.

It didn't take long before this movement caught on in Puerto Vallarta. Community leaders recognized the ethical and economical significance of a "make it, bake it, grow it" option. One member in particular, Charlotte Semple, was particularly enthusiastic about what could be done right here in the Banderas Bay area. A Northern Alberta native and self-proclaimed "farm girl at heart," she was ready to get back to her roots.

In an effort to promote the community and its producers, an Old Town venue was secured. A handful of volunteers and 30 producer-only vendors joined forces to get the OTFM-TC up and running within two weeks. The Market was a hit. Over 600 shoppers came the first day, ready to connect directly with farmers, producers, artists and artisans. The OTFM-TC team knew they were on to something big. That summer, Semple zigzagged her way across Canada and the U.S. studying all things "farmers' market." The plan was to gather ideas to better serve Puerto Vallarta residents and guests.

Fast forward to 2013, and the Market is now a staple of Puerto Vallarta living. An estimated 100,000 visitors come each season to buy just-picked produce, artisan breads, meats, tropical fruits, musical instruments, freshly squeezed juices, healing oils, greeting cards, skin care products, and home accessories. They also pick up tasty pre-made snacks and "eat to the beat" of international musicians who entertain week after week.

With this year marking the 5th season in Puerto Vallarta, the OTFM-TC team wanted to take the Market to the next level. They hit the road once again on what we coined the "North American Farmers' Market Tour." The goal was to check out as many farmers' markets and urban farms as possible in Los Angeles, Seattle, and British Columbia, Canada.

The running theme of these markets was three-fold: to focus on responsible food production, to promote "buy local" options, and to encourage the growth of local entrepreneurs. All three were exactly what the OTFM-TC has been promoting since 2010. Inspired and invigorated, the team came back to Puerto Vallarta, fired up for the new season.

Starting on Saturday, November 2, you'll see many of these new and exciting ideas in practice. And as the season continues, we'll be adding fun-filled elements. One of which is our chef demonstration area. Visitors will be able to pick up some culinary secrets while sampling a flavorful dish or two. Of course, we'll have many more wonderful things to share, but you'll have to join us throughout the season to experience them all!

If you have questions, stop by the Market's Information Booth. It's here that you can purchase a fashion-forward OTFM-TC t-shirt and eco-friendly shopping bag. If you'd like to be a part of the OTFM-TC vendor team or become a demonstrating chef, applications will be available at the booth on Saturday, November 2.

With a new location and fresh ideas, this season's OTFM-TC will be every bit as good as the fabulous markets across Canada and the States. And with our own Vallarta touch, it'll be an unforgettable weekend attraction, blending Mexican tradition and culture with a North American style market. We look forward to seeing you on November 2.

Located kitty-corner to Daiquiri Dick's Restaurant on Olas Atlas, the Old Town Farmers' Market-Tianguis Cultural is open every Saturday 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.