Public Markets

Farmers Market Profiles

INNOVATIVE MARKETS AROUND THE COUNTRY

The farmers markets profiled here range from established thirty-year-old sites to beginners that have been open for one or two seasons. Some have over 200 vendors and long waiting lists to sell at the market, while others consist of fewer than ten growers. From small town farm stands to big city markets, what they all share are creative programs worth further investigation.

We have not traveled to all of these markets and many of their creative innovations are new and untested. Currently they do not illustrate definitive models of success. However, they offer inspiring examples of how farmers markets can address the broader goals and needs of communities and build better places.

"Food Insecurity" - Markets & Health
These markets were founded to address community nutrition needs. Most of them are connected to a health center or run health education programs for their customers.
“Keeping things Green” – Markets, Urban Agriculture & Open Space
Farmers markets keep farmers in business and therefore help to preserve rural open space and combat sprawl. Community and market gardens can also be environmental oases in American cities with minimal green space.
"Eating their Vegetables" - Markets & Youth
Getting kids to eat fresh fruits and vegetables is a challenge, but these farmers market related programs have found creative ways of getting young people involved in eating better and understanding local food systems.
"No one used to come Downtown" - Markets & Revitalization
Cities are beginning to understand the local and regional economic benefits of farmers markets and their ability to spark downtown revitalization.
“Location, Location, Location!” – Markets & Innovative Locations
Hundreds of markets are located in the parking lots of train stations, schools, churches etc., but few have integrated with the location and community as successfully as the markets below.
Markets & Entrepreneurs: New Opportunities
With the help of some innovative programs, farmers markets provide economic and networking opportunities for new farm and food businesses operated by immigrants, refugees, women and minorities.