The Farmington Farmers and Artisans Market opens its 2012 season today, beginning with an 8:45 a.m. ceremony at the Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion in downtown Farmington. 

Because of repairs being made to the Riley Park lawn, vendors will be set up on the street in front of Starbucks, Ruby Blu Salon 2, Dagwood's, Cold Stone Creamery and Tubby's Grilled Submarines. Parking is expected to be at a premium in the Downtown Farmington Center, but lots are available on Orchard St. and at the Maxfield Training Center on Thomas St. 

Here's what else you should know:

Opening Ceremony

• Welcome by Bob Rock, Farmington DDA President
• Remarks by Walt Gajewski, Market Manager
• Opening bell ringing by Miss Farmington and Court
• National Anthem sung by Christine Kavka
• Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayfair Co-op Preschool
• Free cake courtesy of Whole Foods Market
• Market opens at 9 a.m.

Cookin' at the Market

El Nibble Nook, located in Livonia at 8 Mile and Grand River, brings food with an authentic Mexican flair to the market's Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Demos and activities

• Little Sprouts Kids Corner, hosted by Mayfair Co-op Preschool - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Zumba Class by Mid American Studio - 9 a.m.
• Latin dancing demo
• Salsa Gardening Demo by Kim Sauter - 11 a.m.
• Book signing by Susan Clemente of her book Michigan's Guide to Local Cooking, a full-color cookbook including over 70 recipes, using locally grown products.

Fit Farmington

The 1-mile walk around downtown Farmington starts at the information tent at 1 p.m.

Friends of the Market

Donate $20 to support the market and receive a free jute market bag or apron filled with coupons and trinkets from downtown merchants. Learn more at the information tent. 

Music at the Market

Market favorite Bob Monteleone returns, playing favorites from artists like Neil Young and Radiohead, along with his own compositions. 

Share your opening day photos and video here, or upload them to our Neighborhood Gallery.