The weather is warming back up and sunny days are starting to return. This means one thing: The Spring/Summer farmer’s markets are back. The open-air stalls are always bustling with local vendors and filled to the brim with produce, sweet treats, artisan cheesemakers, and candles alike.
As we start to re-populate the parks post-winter-thawing, head over to one of the markets near you for a special day spent with friends. These markets are a real Chicago highlight, and keep going well into the fall season as well. Keep reading for all the information you need on locations, timing, etc.
1. Green City Market
Open on Wednesdays from May 4 – October 26, and Saturdays from April 2 – November 19.
Lincoln Parks Green City Market is open early and is available to peruse now. The West Loop location is set to open May 7. Customers can visit Wednesdays starting at 7AM until 1PM closing or head over on the weekend from 8AM–1PM. CTA transportation or train is available for transportation with parking available and validated at the market entrance.
2. Pullman City Market
This market has a later opening on July 6 but runs until October 26. Venture over for some fresh veggies, fresh flowers and iced coffee from 7AM until 1PM. CTA and train transportation is available on the Red Line.
3. Daley Plaza City Market
Open Thursdays starting on May 12 – October 27.
The Daley Plaza City Market is a joy to behold with a bevy of local vendors, and plenty produce to choose from. Get there early at the 7am start time for a clear path. The market goes on until 2pm, though, so worry not about securing your bounty.
Address: 50 W. Washington St. Chicago, IL 60602
Address: 5610 W. Lake St. Chicago, IL 60644
7. Division Street City Market
Open starting Saturday May 7 – October 29
Packed stands will include fresh crepes and other food items, fresh honey and more at the can’t miss outside venue. Stands open at 7AM and go until 12PM so get there early for a full survey.
Address: 100 W Division St. Chicago, IL 60610
8. Mercado de Colores
Starting Saturday June 4 – October 1.
With a shorter run time from 11AM-3PM, the vibrant market is a must-visit location as it goes until October. The bustling vendors are all about promoting sustainability and it shows with gorgeous fresh produce, local honey, and earth-friendly options galore. There will also be handmade products, Mexican cultural items, and more at the Pilsen location. Plan to take the Brown Line, Blue Line, or Pink Line if you’re going via train. CTA shows the 8, 22, 21 and 82 buses.
Address: Manuel Perez Memorial Plaza, 4345 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623
9. West Humboldt Park City Market
Starting Saturday June 4 – October 1.
This market is in partnership with NHS Chicago. From 10AM-2PM customers can stroll through the open air market for farm fresh finds, locally grown food, and more. The sustainable-focused market is a community run affair so make sure to support as much as you can. Parking is available starting at $3 rates.
Address: 3601 W. Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60651
10. Maxwell Street Market
Open starting Sunday April 3 – December 18.
The historic Maxwell Street Market is a well documented affair with local food vendors, dance performances and more taking place starting at 9am–3pm. The mass market also features furniture, vintage clothing and rare finds. While there’s limited free parking, you can always go from the Blue Line train and exit at Clinton for a short walk South. Or, use the CTA and hop on the 8, 12 or 60. For more info, click here.
Address: 800 S Desplaines St. Chicago, IL 60607
11. Bronzeville City Market
Open Sundays starting July 10 – October 16
Shoppers can secure a great selection of local produce, fresh finds and food vendors alike at the Bronzeville City Market. With a 10AM-2PM time slot and a later opening, expect a packed crowd. PS: The market is walkable from the 47th Street station Green Line.
Address: 4700 S. King Dr. Chicago, IL 60615
Non-profit organization, Experimental Station, has partnered with the city and will continue its Link Up Illinois program. This will now allow SNAP and Link holders to be credited up to $25 per card swipe at various markets.
Markets tend to fall on either a Wednesday-Thursday or Saturday-Sunday schedule. A full 2022 schedule including every farmers market can be found here.
[Featured image from @ilfarmersmarkets]