6 farmers’ markets you should visit this summer
On the hunt for fresh produce, delicious baked goods, specialty foods, and more? Wisconsin is home to some truly outstanding farmers’ markets, from America’s largest producers-only market in Madison to cozier weekly markets in the Northwoods. Here are a few of our favorites.
Madison
The Dane County Farmers Market is the crown jewel of Wisconsin’s farmers’ market scene—every Saturday from late April through early November, the streets around the Wisconsin State Capitol are lined with dozens of vendors and throngs of visitors exploring the offerings at the country’s largest producers-only farmers’ market. (The market actually runs year-round; the winter version is held indoors.) It’s one of the most popular attractions in Madison, so get there early to beat the crowds. Learn more here.
Marshfield
There’s a lot to explore in this charming central Wisconsin community. There’s a zoo that has two rare twin Kodiak bears, a collection of creatures from the “iron age,” and the world’s largest round barn. These attractions are enough to make you hungry—head to the downtown Marshfield farmers’ market in the parking lot of Pick N’ Save on Central Avenue on Tuesday mornings for local produce, flowers, baked goods, artisan crafts, and more. Find more details and see more Marshfield events here.
Minocqua
Head to Oneida County in the Northwoods of Wisconsin to find the Minocqua Farmers Market, where dozens of area farmers, producers, crafters, artisans and non-profit organizations come together every Friday from mid-May to mid-October to sell fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, flowers, and more. Learn more here.
Manitowoc & Two Rivers
Manitowoc and Two Rivers—two friendly communities along Lake Michigan in eastern Wisconsin—are not only home to great recreational options and historical attractions, but each community also has its own robust farmers’ market in spring and summer. The Downtown Manitowoc Farmers Market is held from 8am to 1pm every Saturday on Quay Street, and Two Rivers is home to a combination farmers’ market/crafters market in Central Park on Thursdays and Saturdays from May through October.
Eagle River
Eagle River, located in the heart of Vilas County in northern Wisconsin, actually has two farmers’ markets during the season—one on Wednesdays starting in May and the other on Sundays starting in June—where shoppers can find fresh food, baked goods, gifts, and other Northwoods products. Find more details on Eagle River’s events calendar.
See more Vilas County events here.
Sturgeon Bay
Head to Door County to discover delicious finds at the Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market, which runs on Saturdays from late May to mid-October. Visitors will find an outstanding abundance of locally grown produce, specialty foods and drinks, flowers, meats, cheeses, and baked goods in downtown Sturgeon Bay.