Hatch Chile Fest returns to the Market Square on Saturday, September 1, beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Fresh chiles from New Mexico, mariachi music, kids games and burger sliders are all part of the festivities that has by far become the most popular day at the Market Square.
On that day, vendors bring their chile roasters to the market, permeating the whole market with the delicious aroma.
This year the event hours have been extended to 4:00 p.m. due to the high traffic volume of customers who have flooded the market in years past.
Ron Preusse, one of the roasters and event planners plans on driving out to New Mexico during the week prior to the event to bring back the 2500 lbs of fresh chiles.
“We will be here a little longer this year to try to serve the public,” says Ron. “Every year we bring back more chile’s and every year we sell out.”
Beginning at 10:30 a.m. Main Street volunteers will serve slider sized chile burgers, made with Paris Bakery fresh made buns. Fresh Hatch chiles` will top the sliders and will be available while supplies last, donations accepted.
“Ron and Mike Head are the go-to people for Hatch Chile’s,” says Cheri Bedford, Farmers Market Manager. “They are very familiar with the southwestern delicacy and want to share this experience with others.”
Entertainment by Mariachi Quetzal, a mariachi band from Denton, Texas will add to the Southwestern-themed day. The band will serenade patrons from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Quetzal has played at various venues in the Dallas/Ft Worth area such as The Kessler Theater, The Granada Theater, Dan’s Silverleaf, The Murchison Performing Arts Center, and The Meyerson SymphonyCenter. Mariachi Quetzal has been nominated several times and has won a Dallas Observer Music Award for best Latin group.
Other events throughout the day include chile themed items from participating vendor tables and kid’s activities. Farmers Market T-shirts will be sold while supplies last. For a full schedule check the Market Square Farmers Market Facebook page.
This event is in its 4th year and has continued to grow every year. The organizers are looking for ways to expand the festival to include other opportunities next year.
“You can buy canned green chile but you can’t buy the smell of the fresh chile` roasting, the feel of the charred skin or enjoy the incredible taste of a fresh roasted Hatch Green Chile unless you come to see for yourself,” says Ron Preusse.
For more information or to volunteer for the event, please contact Cheri Bedford at 903-784-9293 or email mainstreet@paristexas.gov
