MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – For over two decades, National Farmers Market Week has been a way for communities to celebrate and highlight the ways that farmers and farmers markets play a role in the food system, and it’s being celebrated this week.
The Marquette Farmers Market hosts markets on Saturday mornings at the Marquette Commons, and Wednesday evenings on Washington Street. This week they’ll be offering fun ways that families can express their gratitude to the vendors and farmers that help the community.
“Farmers markets are really the heart beat of our communities,” said Sara Johnson, the Market Manager. “They provide so many benefits and access to fresh food, and they really support the community and conservation as well. A lot of our farmers use a lot of small farming practices that are good for the land. And this is a week to show appreciation for all of that.”
At each market will be a celebration booth, where attendees can fill out a thank you card to give to vendors. There will also be other activities such as vegetable coloring pages and temporary tattoos for kids.
Johnson said that the celebratory week lines up with the time of year when produce is really in-season in the Upper Peninsula, and that it perfectly lines up with the best time to visit the market.
“This is when local food is really popping off,” Johnson said. “Corn is just around the corner, this is the first market where we’re seeing lots of tomatoes, so come and get those big juicy tomatoes. Berries and so many vegetables are available right here, right now. It’s the best time of year.”
The Farmers Market will be hosting a ceremonial opening on Saturday, August 12, at the Marquette Commons to kick off the market.
To learn more about the Marquette Farmers Market and to stay up-to-date on all of their happenings, click here.
