POLSON - The oldest farmers' market in the state of Montana opened the 2010 season on a beautiful spring morning, a welcome reprieve from recent rainy weather.

The Polson farmer's market, which market manager Don Blais said has been in existence since the mid-1960s, opened Friday morning at its new location on Third Ave. between Main and First Ave. West.

Highlighted with a ribbon cutting ceremony, the new location has drawn rave reviews from attendees, vendors and downtown business owners. The old location, in the Masonic Temple's parking lot on Fourth Ave. east, was less than ideal, most agreed.

"I think it's wonderful and I'm so glad," Rachel Violett, of Polson, said of the move. "I've always wondered why it wasn't downtown of near a park or something. I think it's great for the community and the downtown businesses."

The change is the result of hard work and cooperation between various entities, city parks director Karen Sargeant said. The city, business community, downtown business owners and vendors all worked together to make it work, she said, and the first day seemed to be indicative of that. People strolled the block and bought crafts, baked goods and plants while musician Dan Dubuque played an acoustic slide guitar on a bright, sunny morning. While it's still too early for most veggies and produce, Blais said he expects the market to fill as the season progresses.

"I would think by the peak of tourist season we should have this street filled," he said. "With the merchants welcoming us down here, it's great. It's a win-win for everybody."

See the upcoming Leader for more information.