Chicago provides farm and garden fresh goods from local growers all summer long. With new markets coming to the city every year, Chicagoans and visitors alike will have more opportunities to stock up on our organic, locally produced goods. For those of you who like your taste of Chicago healthy and not from a drive-thru, here’s a guide to the city’s farmer’s markets. There is truly no better way to celebrate the sunny seasons than a visit to the many farmers markets in Chicago. The city offers daytime as well as a few night markets. The night markets provide opportunities for those busy during to the day to still get fresh goods after hours. Most of them are active from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., while the many daytime markets start their hours very early in the day.
Green City Market: Held in Lincoln Park, Green City Market‘s Outdoor Market is one of the best in Chicago. Bringing the community together, it not only is packed with fresh, seasonal produce, but also is filled with friendly staff in a beautiful outdoor setting. To help with your shopping experience, we suggest you bring your own reusable bags and cash. The market is more than just shopping. Each day watch chef demonstrations and learn new recipes for your at-home menu. Green City Market is a not for profit organization that aims to support small family farms and promote a healthier society through education and appreciation for local, fresh, sustainably raised produce and products. Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Chicago Botanic Garden Farmers’ Market: The Chicago Botanic Garden brings together local, sustainable farmers for its Farmers’ Market. Vendors offer seasonal products such as fruits, vegetables and herbs beneath the elm trees on the Esplanade. Handmade pottery, jams, honey and more round out the offerings. Visitors can purchase a special market bag at the Garden Shop to carry all of their purchases from the market. First and third Thursdays of the month from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
SOAR Farmers’ Market: Every Tuesday the MCA hosts the SOAR Farmers Market on the front plaza. Vendors at the European-style outdoor market offer a colorful variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, cut and potted flowers, baked goods, cheeses, and spices. Out of the more than 30 popular Farmers Markets throughout Chicago, the SOAR Farmers Market at the MCA is the only one in the Streeterville area. Tuesdays from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Treasure Island Foods Farmers Market: Treasure Island Foods proudly announces the launch of its Urban Islander Farmers Markets at its Lakeview East location. The market is free to attend and features locally grown and produced products, specialty and artisanal foods, music, fun activities for kids, Chicago’s hottest food trucks, craft beers on draft, and dozens of other offerings. Thursdays from 3-8 p.m.
Daley Plaza Farmers’ Market: The longest-running farmers’ market in Chicago, the Daley Plaza Farmers’ Market offers everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods and more. This market accepts the LINK card. Thursdays from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Click here for a comprehensive list of all Chicago farmers’ markets, including location, hours, and LINK card acceptance.
