Enjoy the Sunshine, Shop Local at the 2019 Downtown Farmers' Market
The 2019 Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines’ Historic Court District is one of the area’s most revered annual events. Devoted attendees come back year after year to enjoy the tastes, sounds and aromas of The Market. Everyone looks forward to that first weekend in May, when local musicians line the street and you can grab breakfast and a coffee while browsing an array of products from local vendors. I look forward to it every year, and here’s why you should, too!
2019 Vendors + Entertainment
Vendors
With entrepreneurs from across Iowa’s 50 counties taking part in The Market, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From baked goods to fresh foods, The Market’s wide array of products offer a chance for attendees to purchase Iowa-made and/or Iowa-grown goods. As a strong supporter of the Shop Local movement, knowing my purchase is helping small businesses right here in the state is just one of the reasons I love shopping at The Market every Saturday.
Check out all of this year’s local participating vendors!
Entertainment
From jazz musicians to folk bands, The Market offers live music on nearly every corner of Historic Court District throughout the event. These performances set the mood, creating the perfect upbeat atmosphere.
You can find the 2019 Market entertainers list here.
Parking 101
If you’re already interested in attending The Market in 2019 but worried about parking, I understand. Parking downtown can be stressful when you don’t work or live downtown! Luckily, the event is in the city’s hub where there are numerous parking garages, making it easy to find affordable parking. Rates are as low as $1/hour. I usually park in the Third Street and Court Avenue ramp, but you can also find spots in other nearby ramps, including:
- Science Center of Iowa & Blank IMAX Dome Theater ramp
- Fourth Street and Grand Avenue ramp
If you don’t mind a bit of a walk, park at the ramps near Western Gateway Park or Wells Fargo Arena. Free parking is also available in lots on the edge of Downtown Des Moines (DSM).
Navigating Downtown DSM is easy with so many parking options!
Walk, bike, shuttle
If you park in one of the convenient parking garages, it’ll be a short walk to The Market, but if you park a little further away, you might want to take advantage of the D-Line shuttle. During The Market season — and for the duration of the event each Saturday — the shuttle runs along Grand Avenue and Locust Street between First Street and Fifth Avenue. The shuttle runs every 10 minutes so you won’t be waiting long, which means more time for strolling from booth to booth.
Those who want to bike to The Market will love the free secure bike valet, thanks to the Des Moines Bicycle Collective. And if you run into trouble, Market staff is there to help! From tire inflation to changing a flat, staff members will get you on your way.
See you there!
The Market has a wonderful history as part of the summer event lineup in Downtown DSM. I’m ready to check out what the 2019 season has to offer. If you are, too, sign up for special offers from The Market’s vendors by texting “Market” to 46986. Subscribe and you’ll receive a text on Friday with the next day’s deal!
Downtown Farmers’ Market
From May to October, experience local artists, live music and entertainment at the Downtown Farmers’ Market featuring nearly 300 family farmers, bakers, artists and crafters from around the state. It’s easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.