Wheaton’s French market back in action April 12

Wheatonnites can do as the French do and leisurely browse an open-air market returning downtown this month.

The Wheaton French Market will open on Saturday, April 12, with vendors once again setting up under the city’s pavilion near Main Street and Liberty Drive. The market will run every Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Oct. 25 (with shorter hours to wrap up the season in November).

Bensidoun USA operates the market, one of the largest in the area. Crowds can spill onto a sit-down plaza, preferably with a flaky croissant in hand, and check out a colorful mural. On a sunny opening day last year, a solo guitarist played for the market throngs, and Wheaton’s I Have a Bean offered hot coffee.

Market regulars usually find an assortment of flower bouquets, fresh produce from local farms, candles, soaps, pet treats and baked goods.

Liberty Drive will be closed between Main Street and Cross Street, including municipal Lot 3, every Saturday until approximately 3 p.m. during the French market season.