Havre market

The S.A.T.U.R.D.A.Y Market was in full swing when I arrived a few minutes before its official opening time of 8 am.

Vendor booths filled the Town Square park in the middle of town, with items for sale including produce of all types, baked goods (cinnamon rolls, pies, gluten-free), homemade laundry detergent, deep-fried Oreos, jewelry, and friendly bears carved from wood.

I chatted with 14-year-old Alexia, who grows produce in her large garden in town and has been carefully putting away money to buy a vehicle for her upcoming transition into adulthood when she gets her learner's permit for driving. (In Montana this is possible when you're 15.)

I also talked to Julie and Courtney, two young teachers who are not only the most cheerful and charming of women, but also make delightful items for sale, including shopping bags out of t-shirts and
-- to the delight of many repeat customers from as far away as Canada -- gluten-free cookies and edible clay for children. (Play-Doh can harm children who must stay away from gluten.) I can attest that Julie's peanut butter cookies are tasty enough for anyone, not just those avoiding gluten.

And in case you are wondering, like me, why all the dots in the market name, the woman at the Chamber of Commerce told me they just wanted to be different. "We wanted a distinctive logo," she said.

Alexia helps a customer

Julie and Courtney smiling

their gluten-free items put smiles on customers

have a faux-ito with your gluten-free cookie

produce

more produce

an ooey-gooey warm deep-fried Oreo

more traditional baked goods

Havre S.A.T.U.R.D.A.Y Market

Town Square on First Street (Highway 2)

July 11 - September 19

Saturday, 8 am - noon