Colorful umbrellas provided shade for the round picnic tables on the hot Saturday in August. Some people sat at the tables, enjoying a treat they discovered at the Golden Farmers’ Market.

Lots of shoppers were milling around — the market was busy, but not overly crowded. The setup allowed for plenty of room to leisurely browse.

A line formed at the Pangea coffee stand, while others waited for a fresh-roasted ear of corn. People cut through the farmers’ market on their way to Clear Creek, carrying large inner tubes.

The backdrop is beautiful, said Joe Patane of Arvada. You have the mountains and the stream. Plus, “the social scene is nice.”

There’s lots of interesting and different tents set up at the market, said John Booth of Aurora, who was selling his uncle’s product, Big Paw Olive Oil and balsamic vinegars.

“It has a unique flavor,” he said. “It’s not like store-bought olive oil.”

People sought out fresh vegetables and fruits, cheeses and meats, gourmet sauces and spices.

“At farmers’ markets, for the most part, you’re buying directly from the farmer,” said Loon Sam.

Sam had more than 20 varieties of apples and 13 varieties of peaches, plus heirloom tomatoes, plums and pears from Ela Family Farms for sale. “It’s good to know where your fruits and vegetables are coming from. You can taste the quality.”

The selection of organic and non-GMO produce is “the main thing,” said Heather Pope.

“We came to Golden to hike,” said Westminster resident Pope, “and ended up at the farmers’ market. But we did hike. This is our stop for lunch.”

Sunshine Knapp of Golden likes buying local products. She made a stop at her favorite vendor — the veggie stand.

“That’s the reason I come every year,” she said.