Throughout my life in this beautiful town, I have frequented one event each summer Saturday: the farmers market.

It is the most social and fun event during summers. To further my love for this tradition, I have worked at the event almost every Saturday for the past five years.

From 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on the cross of Seventh and Yampa streets downtown, farmers, craftsmen and chefs sell their wares to the smiling, happy population of locals and tourists alike. You can find pies, jewelry, bread, lotions and baskets while listening to music and the happy chatter of vendors and their customers.

Currently, I work with Northern Lights Jewelry, and I love being able to socialize with everyone, meeting people from Steamboat to Switzerland.

Since I frequent the farmers market, I have some pro tips for first-timers:

• Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a bag to carry your purchases. Because we live in Colorado, we have (to quote from my sister, who is sitting right next to me) 300 days of sunshine. Protecting yourself from this is key to a fun farmers market and a great weekend.

• The farmers market is your opportunity to wear summer dresses and carry a basket. While I was working, a woman carrying a basket and wearing a white, flowy dress and a sunhat walked up to purchase some jewelry. She perfectly embodied summer at the farmers market. Of course, regular T-shirts work perfectly fine, they’re just not as fun. I use the market as an excuse to dress totally cute.

• If you are bringing your dogs, please put them on a leash. And if the pavement is super hot that day, put them in booties. The farmers market is a prime dog-watching event. Everyone at the market is social, even our pets!

The farmers market is a great way to start your weekend and to enjoy the sunshine. Make sure to wave “hi” to me next time you’re there.

Libby Lukens has lived in Steamboat Springs for 13 years and has loved every moment of it. She enjoys hiking, ice hockey, theater and exploring Steamboat’s beautiful community. She is determined to savor every moment she has in the mountains before heading to George Washington University in the fall to study political science.