Farmers’ markets are more than just a place to purchase fresh, delicious produce

BLOOMINGTON – Farmers’ markets are more than just a place to purchase fresh, delicious produce. You get face-to-face interaction with the person who grew or made your food, increasing that sense of connection. 

 Photo courtesy of Merrill Hatlen

Farmers’ markets also offer more than just fruits and vegetables. They sell a whole variety of food, including bread, dairy products, seeds, jams, sauces, and some baked goods.

 Photo courtesy of Merrill Hatlen

They are also a great community gathering spot and a fun place to visit with loved ones, friends, or children. You can involve the kids by letting them pick new foods and help them prepare a meal.

This year marks the 50th season of the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market.

You can expect various farm and field goods throughout the season, including fruits and vegetables, eggs, meats and cheeses, honey, seasonal flowers, and annual and perennial plants.

Food and beverage artisans provide a tasteful variety of satisfying breads, drinks, pastries, and savory dishes.

Music at the Market

Jesse Beals is a long-time singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He has quickly brought his vision of unique and original string band music to life with his band, Low Landers.

Jesse Beals

They provide a smooth blend of soul-crushing ballads that, per Jesse, will keep your “feet moving and your eyes watering.” The performance will begin at 10:00 a.m. on the Market’s circular stage.

Mayor’s Team at the Table

Mayor’s Team at the Table is a community outreach program that invites Market-goers to engage with the mayor and various department heads from the City of Bloomington government.

Most Saturday mornings, either the Mayor or one of the City’s department heads will be at the Farmers’ Market to answer resident questions and discuss issues of interest in the city. 

This week, Information And Technology Services Director Rick Dietz and ITS Office Manager Victoria Jones will greet the public at the Market between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.