Scented steam rising up to meet my nose, as if to say good morning. A nice warm cup to cling to as I stroll through the Hamilton Farmer’s Market on a Saturday morning.

My routine goes something like this:

I ride my bike eight blocks down to the market at about 10 a.m. I lean it against a tree and head over to the coffee stand, which is usually permeating the air with the smell of deliciousness 

Once I get my cup of coffee, I head over to the Maria’s Burritos or maybe The Crepe Lady for a delicious breakfast treat. Then I’m off to find the local bounty of fresh vegetables to carry me through the week.

This routine may seem a tad simple, but it is the finest part of living in a small community. At the Farmer’s Market, local people support local farmers, bakers and craftsmen. Friends and neighbors get a chance to rub elbows with tourists and visitors. A great example of how everyone is playing a role in the community they value and support.

It’s also a place to catch up with local happenings or say hello to people you haven’t seen for a week or maybe a year. During the summer in the Bitterroot Valley, the Hamilton Farmer’s Market is arguably the biggest social event going. You can get flowers for your garden, veggies for the week, ceramic, goat’s milk soap or a jar of local honey. Two other communities in the valley have Farmer’s Markets: Darby and Stevensville.

Life in the Bitterroot Valley is still centered on community. It’s still a place where kids play on neighborhood streets and neighbors barbecue on Friday nights. Places like the grocery store, the Farmer’s Market and the library are still gathering grounds.

So whether you’re visiting or just moved to the valley, enjoy small-town Montana and visit the local Farmer’s Market. The Hamilton Farmer’s Market opens at 9 and closes down about 12:30. They always have music and are open rain or shine.