SARATOGA SPRINGS — In June 1995, two entrepreneurs completed the transformation of a former beer warehouse into a market full of fresh produce, meat, fish, and specialty groceries. This week, Putnam Market celebrates its two-decade evolution of a small, family-owned business into a signature community institution in downtown Saratoga Springs.

To kick off a six-month anniversary celebration, Putnam Market will host a birthday event on Friday, June 26 from noon to 5 p.m. All-day demonstrations in The Wine Room will feature food and wine parings, including artisanal cheese and specialties from the Putnam kitchens. On the other side of the Market, guests will have an opportunity to sample distinctive locally produced and sourced foods. The first 100 customers will receive gift bags featuring some of the staff’s favorite items.

Putnam staff will guide sampling of hot and cold foods, as well as confections and desserts. Guests are invited to sample brownies, mixed berry pie, and chocolate cake made from scratch. Additionally, the staff invites visitors to try Jambalaya and its popular chicken salads, potato salad, and spinach dip. Putnam-brand Saratoga Silks pasta sauce, salsa, and preserves will also be available for tasting. Finally, birthday cupcakes will be available to officially celebrate the event.

The 20^th Anniversary will kick off a six-month series of events that celebrate Putnam Market’s commitment to and appreciation of the Saratoga Springs community. Among the highlights will be the Putnam 20^th Collection, a compilation of the staff’s favorite products from over the years. Additionally, limited-edition anniversary products will be available -- the first being a 20^thAnniversary coffee blend.

Putnam Street Market Place opened for business June 30, 1995 at 63 Putnam Street. The market featured fresh produce, meat and fish, and specialty groceries. As the business grew, local sandwiches debuted in the autumn of 1995, and chefs started in-house production of salads and bakery items in 1997. Putnam Wine opened in 1998, along with a fully stocked specialty cheese counter. In May 2000, the business moved to its current Broadway location and shortened its name to Putnam Market.

More recently, The Cheese Room debuted in June 2012. The space, which features glass walls that maintain an optimal cheese-ripening temperature, brought some of the best cheeses in the world to Saratoga County. Later that year, a complete store remodel expanded in-house seating and sandwich production. Also added were more self-serve foods and improved frontage for The Wine Room. In 2014, online ordering was launched. Throughout the years, Putnam Market has balanced ongoing physical evolutions with its original mission of bringing distinctive and delicious foods, wines, and customer service to Saratoga Springs. Additional information can be found online at www.putnammarket.com or by calling 518-587-3663.