Downtown Farmers' Market Announces 2017 Vendors
DOWNTOWN DES MOINES, IOWA — The Downtown Farmers' Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines has announced its list of 288 vendors for the 2017 season. The Market is produced by the Downtown Community Alliance, which is a pillar of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. It will open for its 42nd season on Saturday, May 6.
The Downtown Farmers' Market presents Iowa producers from 50 counties across Iowa, offering locally produced fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, cheese, wine and much more. The Market supports nearly 300 farmers, growers and artisan food entrepreneurs. The Market offers a variety of attractions and activities including shopping for fresh produce, meats and more, eating breakfast, enjoying the atmosphere, meeting with family and friends and live entertainment.
The Market will welcome a wide assortment of vendors, including:
- 97 farmers, producers and growers
- 25 vendors selling baked goods
- Nine local wine producers
- Five artisanal cheese makers
- 59 food artisans and gourmet food producers
- 47 new vendors
"We are excited to present such a diverse mix of products and vendors to this year's Downtown Farmers' Market," said Kelly Foss, Director of The Market. "We take pride in supporting local farmers, producers and small business owners by giving them a chance to showcase their goods to tens of thousands of people each Saturday during The Market season."
The Market takes place every Saturday morning from May 6 through Oct. 28, 2017. Hours are 7 a.m. to Noon, with a later start time during October when hours are 8 a.m. to Noon. The Market spans nine city blocks in the Historic Court District, from First Street to Fifth Avenue. It extends north and south on Second Avenue, Third Street and Fourth Street.
The Downtown Farmers' Market began in 1976 with just 15 vendors and an average of 200 shoppers. Today, The Market supports nearly 300 vendors and welcomes an average of 25,000 visitors each Saturday. An estimated 40,000 shoppers typically visit on Opening Day and key peek dates throughout the season. The Downtown Farmers' Market has been recognized nationally by publications including The Daily Meal, Shape Magazine, Midwest Living Magazine and Country Living Magazine.
To find more information and see the full list of vendors, go to DesMoinesFarmersMarket.com.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,100 Regional Business Members and more than 320 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.