Denver Residents Stunned by Bear Visit at Farmers Market

Two Sundays ago, I visited the South Pearl Street Farmers Market in the newly discovered Platt Park neighborhood of Denver. As I strolled among the crowds, I noticed a gathering on the sidewalk near a busy street, with people holding up their phones and a police car blocking traffic.

Unexpected Bear Sighting

A woman informed me it was a bear, perched high in a cottonwood tree. A small crowd of neighbors, market-goers, and police officers patiently waited for representatives from Colorado Parks and Wildlife to tranquilize and relocate the animal.

Drought Fuels Unusual Behavior

The bear was safely released later that day into a wild area. Authorities believe the bear’s unusual foray into the city was due to drought conditions reducing its typical food sources. Many market-goers were enjoying fresh produce, including peaches, Hatch green chiles, and salsa, with the enticing aroma of BBQ and Texas tacos filling the air.

Market Highlights

The market offered a variety of goods, including flowers, dinosaur and Bulbasaur planters, and unique decorations like ceramic post finials depicting a church, a boat named Nell, and a gnome-friendly hut. I enjoyed some of the best peaches I’ve ever tasted.

Market Details

The South Pearl Street Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm between May and early November. While unlikely to see another bear, it serves as a reminder of the changing environment and the challenges faced by wildlife.