Metrolink traffic prompts longer hours for popular market.

The Old Town Newhall Farmer’s Market has expanded its hours to take advantage of the longer summer days.

From now until the end of August, the market will be open Thursdays from 3 to 8 p.m. on Market Street between Main and Walnut Streets.

Fresh produce draws hundreds to the Thursday afternoon market

 “We’ve noticed an increase in the number of people, especially from the Metrolink station,” said David Knutson of the city’s Arts and Events office. “We want to make it easier for them to come and enjoy the market without being rushed.”

Knutson said that the market, which started with just a handful of vendors, is up to at least 30 vendors, split half and half between produce and arts and crafts.

He said a lot of people are also staying longer at the market, enjoying prepared foods such as tamales and tacos or roasted vegetables for dinner.

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“We’ve got tables and umbrellas for people to sit and we have music, sometimes a live band,” he said.

A new program being launched next month is a chef’s series, where local culinary students or restaurant chefs will demonstrate their craft with market purchases.

Steaming fresh tamales are one of the market's most popular items

The city also hopes to keep the market open year-round. Knutson said that vendors could change depending on the season, but the goal is to provide an ongoing market experience.

Information on the market is available by visiting the market during regular hours or calling Knutson at 286-4037.