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Farmers Market brings warmth even in the winter
Like anyone who has tried to grow plants, the Dripping Springs Farmers Market is facing the unique challenges in the winter with freezing temperatures and frosty mornings test the resilience of local farmers and their crops. Growing fresh produce during these months requires ingenuity and determination, and the impact of the harsh weather is felt throughout the market. Despite these difficulties, this community hub continues to thrive.
“In Texas, every year is different,” said Charlie Reed, Farmers Market Manager for the city of Dripping Springs. “With historic droughts and unpredictable freezes, farming here requires a lot of stubbornness and resilience.” This year, a recent cold snap brought temperatures into the low 20s, plenty cold enough to damage crops and limit fresh produce at the market. Reed emphasizes that farmers are always working to adapt. “They’re planning, planting and finding ways to cope with the weather,” he said.
The market’s local focus and strong sense of community have been key to its success. Founded in 2009 by Marionette Simmons, a local organic farmer, the market has grown alongside Dripping Springs itself. What began as three vendors on the side of Highway 290 has blossomed into a vibrant weekly event held in Dripping Springs Ranch Park, drawing dozens of vendors and visitors each Wednesday.
Even in winter, when temperatures dip near freezing, the market offers an inviting atmosphere. Last week, visitors were greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the sounds of live music and the warmth of prepared food like wood-fired pizzas. The sense of community is palpable. Reed describes the market as a place where people can “sit down, have a conversation, enjoy some food and feel connected.”
One farmer braving the weather was Hope Full Farm, which is a nonprofit farm located just 10 miles from the market.
“Winter farming can be a gamble,” Ali Stone, the farm’s manager, said. “We use crop covers to protect our plants from the cold, but it’s laborintensive and not feasible for every farmer.”
Despite the challenges, Hope Full Farm’s booth is filled with vibrant root vegetables and hardy greens—cauliflower, broccoli, radishes, kale and more.
“Broccoli was a hit today,” Stone said. “It’s our first time bringing it to the market [this season,] and it’s almost sold out.”
In addition to selling at the market, the farm donates over 51% of its produce to local nonprofits like Sunday Lunchbox, which delivers fresh, nutritious food to underserved families in Central Texas.
While fresh vegetables might be in shorter supply during the winter, the market’s offerings remain diverse. Ranchers provide a steady supply of high-quality meats while prepared food vendors and artisans ensure there’s always something special to discover. Among the craftspeople is Jimmy Tolly of Tolly’s Turnings. Jimmy and his twin brother are woodturners who have been showcasing handmade bowls, cutting boards and ornaments at the Dripping Springs market for about four years.
“It’s chilly in the winter,” Tolly admits with a laugh, “but we dress warmly and make it work.”
His booth, filled with beautifully crafted wooden items, is a favorite among market- goers. Tolly and his twin brother often engage children with hands-on activities like painting wooden Christmas trees they’ve carved.
“It’s all about making it fun for the community,” he said.
Winter markets in Texas are unpredictable, but their charm lies in their resilience.
“Our vendors are incredibly stubborn,” Reed jokes. “They work hard to bring fresh, natural products to the market every week, no matter the weather.”
This dedication ensures that the Dripping Springs Farmers Market remains a vibrant gathering place year-round.
For visitors, the winter market offers a chance to enjoy seasonal delights from roasted root vegetables to warm handmade meals. It’s also an opportunity to support local farmers, ranchers and artisans who pour their passion and care into every product they bring. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the musician’s stage, shopping for fresh greens at Hope Full Farm or admiring the craftsmanship at Tolly’s Turnings, the Dripping Springs Farmers Market is a testament to the strength and spirit of its community—a warm and welcoming place, even on the coldest of days.
