Now that the snow has officially come, ponds have frozen over, and fields are dusted with white, you may assume that farmers markets are over for the year. Before we all lose ourselves in asking the classic “Why do we live here again?” let me tell you, that assumption is incorrect. The Menomonie Farmers Market has grown and thrived since 2000. During this past summer, they averaged 30 to 45 vendors every week. With this amazing momentum, cold weather and snow won’t stop them. Beginning Nov. 16, The Raw Deal in Menomonie hosts the Winter Market, where local farmers, bakers, and artists come together to sell their products, farmers market-style. There will be local produce, meats, cheeses, baked items, and handcrafted goods. Fresh coffee, food, and live music will provide a warm and comfortable atmosphere that we all miss from the summer months. The Raw Deal will host the Winter Farmers Market every Saturday from 9am-1pm through April 11. All are welcome to join and enjoy “local farmers and artists, fresh foods and goods, real people and values.”