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It’s finally spring in 51��Ʒ��Ƶsburgh — that means new growth, temperamental weather and the return of the 51��Ʒ��Ƶ .

“We’re starting a week earlier than last year because we know how much folks love the 51��Ʒ��Ƶ Farmers Market,” said 51��Ʒ��Ƶ Sustainability Manager Nick Goodfellow. “It’s still a little early for any produce, but our favorite lunch and baked goods vendors are ready for the crowds.”

Vendors will set up shop in the William 51��Ʒ��Ƶ Union Plaza on April 6, 13 and 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Marketgoers will have the chance to pick up baked goods, BBQ, Mexican cuisine, vegan bites and more. Along with cash, credit and debit, students can use their Dining Dollars or Panther Funds at the market.

Goodfellow’s first stop will be Jak’s Bakery for Bulgarian specialties like banitsa, a savory pastry made with phyllo dough. “Jak’s first job in the U.S. was as a baker at Market Central, now The Eatery, and it’s awesome to see how his business is growing,” Goodfellow said.

Attendees should plan to bring reusable bags — no vendors will offer single-use plastic bags — and can also at a staffed drop-off station.

And, Goodfellow adds, it wouldn’t hurt to pack some rain gear. The market is rain or shine.

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— Patrick Monahan, photography by Mike Drazdzinski