If one of the reasons why you get excited about the summer months is the opening of your favorite Chicago farmers market, then this is the perfect guide for you. The city has quite a few wonderful places with fresh produce for you to choose from. Some of them have a few dozen vendors, while others are more popular because of their location.
In any case, eating healthy and fresh has never been as easy and exciting as nowadays. So, if you’re planning on visiting a farmers market in Chicago at least every week, then make sure to consult this list to find out what places are open.
Let’s explore the best Chicago farmers markets.
Our Favorite Chicago Farmers Markets
Table of Contents
Monday Markets
1. Chicago French Market
Where: 131 North Clinton (Between Washington and Randolph)
When: year-round; Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-7:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The Chicago French Market was founded in 2009. It was inspired by a European marketplace where the locals could shop fresh local produce and spend some time with their community.
The Bensidoun Family hand-picked all the 30+ vendors you’ll find at the market. This family, by the way, has been the largest market operator in Paris since 1953. Today, it operates nearly 100 markets throughout Europe and the United States.
Even though the seating area will remind you of the streets of Paris (and there is also an art mural of the City of Love that you can take a picture in front of), the market includes businesses that offer foods from all around the world.
You will find local produce and baked items for sale here. But the locals usually prefer to come to the market to grab something to eat (starting from dim sums and ending with empanadas).
Tuesday Markets
2. Low-Line Market
Where: 3410 N Southport Ave
When: June-October, 3:00 PM-7:00 PM
Why to Visit:
This farmers market in Chicago is part of the Lakeview Low-Line project. The main aim of the project was to turn this area of the city into an attraction of its own. Here, you can find cool mural walls, interactive light installations, an urban forest, and much more.
Just a little over 20 vendors are able to present their locally-grown herbs, fruits, veggies, and flowers at the market. You can also get your hands on some honey, jam, and freshly made tamales. This is one of the places where dogs are welcome. In fact, you might even walk away with a few doggie treats.
3. Lincoln Square Farmers Market
Where: N Lincoln Ave and W Leland Ave
When: May-November, 7:00 AM-12:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The market takes place on Tuesdays from early morning till noon and in the evening on Thursdays. If you’re an early riser, you might want to visit the Lincoln Square Farmers Market to get some baked goods for breakfast (the fresh donuts from Dinky Delights are to die for).
Shop for fresh fruits and veggies from over 40 vendors, and remember to participate in one of the activities constantly happening in the parking lot. Cooking demonstrations, yoga, kids programs… You might actually end up spending half of your day at this market, and it would certainly be a good one.
4. SOAR Farmers Market
Where: 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago
When: June-October, 7:00 AM-2:00 PM
Why to Visit:
Have you ever attended a farmers market that’s located at a contemporary art museum? You can start your day by exploring the museum and then buying some fresh produce on your way out. Here, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of vendors who offer locally grown and produced products. Butcher and bakers, farmers and florists – you’ll get to meet everyone.
By the way, some vendors have pre-ordering options, which is great for those on the hunt for something specific. You can also grab something to eat at the market. Fresh pies, to-go sandwiches, and seasonal soups – these are just a few examples of what you’ll discover at SOAR Farmers Market.
5. City Market at Federal Plaza
Where: 50 W Adams St
When: May-October, 7:00 AM-3:00 PM
Why to Visit:
This rather small and ‘intimate’ Chicago farmers market takes place at the rectangular plaza at the Loop.
It’s a great location not only for Loop workers (who often come here to grab something for lunch) but also for the people looking for cool photo ops around the city – the famous red flamingo sculpture by Alexander Calder is located here.
There are plenty of herbs, flowers, and plants for you to choose from. You’ll also shop for fresh, seasonal vegetables and chat with friendly vendors. The good news is that you wouldn’t have to get to the place at the crack of dawn to get the best products. There will still be a lot of amazing things left during lunchtime as well.
Wednesday Markets
6. Andersonville Farmers Market
Where: 1500 W Berwyn Ave
When: May-October, 3:00 PM-7:00 PM
Why to Visit:
This is quite a famous market in the Edgewater neighborhood that has been operating for over a decade. Of course, all the regular stapes are also being sold here, but the market is especially loved by those looking for something a bit more unique.
Shop for Japanese rice balls, baklava, arancini, gooey butter cake, tofu products, Filipino street food, and so much more. Every week is different at the market, as plenty of vendors like to ‘pop up’ for one week only, so you might make a few unexpected discoveries while you’re there.
7. Green City Market
Where: Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St
When: May-October, 7:00 AM-1:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The Green City Market at Lincoln Park also takes place every Saturday, May through October. The founders’ mission is to support Midwest growers and build vibrant markets for sustainably produced products in Chicago.
The organization also hosts various educational programs geared toward people of all ages to help locals understand how what they buy, cook, and eat affects the city’s future (and, ultimately, the planet).
Even though Saturday’s market features the biggest line-up, there are plenty of stands to explore in the middle of the week. Apart from stocking up on fresh produce, you can also buy syrups, jams, and hot sauces here.
8. Ravenswood Farmers Market
Where: 4900 N Damen Ave
When: June-October, 4:00 PM-7:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The market is located in the Ravenswood Evangelical Covenant Church parking lot. It is an open-air summer market where the locals will get to connect with the people who grow and make food for them. There are only around 9 constant vendors at Ravenswood Farmers Market, but they get joined by guest food trucks and pop-up vendors each week.
Apart from fresh veggies and fruits, you’ll be able to shop for cookies, scones, tamales, vanilla-roasted nuts, cold brew coffee, macarons, and much more. By the way, the market features a free children’s play area with a bounce house! So you won’t have to worry about your kids getting bored while you do your weekly shopping.
Thursday Markets
9. Daley Plaza Farmers Market
Where: 50 W Washington St
When: May-October, 7:00 AM-2:00 PM
Why to Visit:
Locals like this farmers market in Chicago for its convenient location. It’s right off the CTA stops in the Loop. It is amazing for those who work in the area and need to get some fresh vegetables for dinner or those who want a delicious lunch break.
As a bonus, you’ll get to shop or eat right next to one of the city’s most famous sculptures. The Chicago Picasso is a 50-foot monumental sculpture that some locals like to climb on (you can also slide down the base).
The Daley Plaza Farmers Market is one of the most long-running markets of this kind in the city. So, grabbing something to eat from here and organizing a picnic right under the Chicago Picasso is definitely a must-do in the Windy City.
Saturday Markets
10. Division Street Farmers Market
Where: 30 W Division St
When: May-October, 7:00 AM-1:00 PM
Why to Visit:
This is a fantastic place to do your weekly fresh produce shopping, as you’ll literally find barrels of tomatoes, peppers, and asparagus here. The market takes over a few blocks of one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city.
When compared to other farmers’ markets, this one is more on the inexpensive end of the spectrum. Get your hands on produce, meats, bread, cheese, and flowers, as well as fresh croissants and crepes made on-site.
Also Read: The Best Farmers Markets in the USA
11. Plant Chicago Farmers Market
Where: Davis Square Park (the corner of 45th and Marshfield)
When: June-November, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
Why to Visit:
This Saturday farmers market in Chicago was founded by Plant Chicago – a company dedicated to cultivating local circular economies. The market features locally grown produce, honey, flowers, baked goods, micro greens, vegan treats, and a lot more.
You can also get body products or beautiful jewelry pieces here. The prepared food options include cold-pressed superfood juices and vegan cuisine. You’ll enjoy live music, various family-friendly activities, and even STEM workshops every week. By the way, visitors are allowed to explore the yard and meet the bees, fish, and chickens.
If you have any food scraps at home, you can drop them off at the market for free, and Plant Chicago will haul them to a composting facility for you.
12. Englewood Village Farmers Market
Where: Englewood Village Plaza (58th & Halsted)
When: June-October, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The market is hosted by Grow Greater Englewood – a social enterprise planning to build African-centered and sustainable districts in the area to improve community health. The main aim of the weekly farmers market is to connect the residents with Black-owned businesses that sell locally-grown produce and goods.
The Plaza, where the market takes place, is also the entry point to the Englewood Nature Trail (a 2-mile linear park). The hosts make sure to bring together the best DJs and bands in town. So, you’ll be able to enjoy some outstanding music while shopping for fresh produce.
13. South Loop Farmers Market – Printers Row
Where: Printers Row Park, 632 S. Dearborn St
When: May-October, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Why to Visit:
South Loop Farmers Market hosts two markets in the growing and diverse South Loop area. The Printers Row market is the one that takes place every Saturday in the idyllic green space that offers seating, a garden, and a gorgeous ornamental fountain.
You’ll find pretty much everything you can think of at this lovely market, including bagels, vegan empanadas, and kombucha. The farmers market is also home to the weekly South Loop Artist Cove. Here, new artists and makers get featured. And you might be able to take part in some fun activities, like healing treatments, for example.
Do bear in mind that there is no free parking and no bathrooms on site.
14. 61st St. Farmers Market
Where: 6100 S. Blackstone Avenue (61st & Dorchester)
When: May-October, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The indoor season of this market starts in November and lasts until April. During the warmer time of the year, the market hosts 20-25 vendors that offer their fruits, vegetables and produce. They cater mainly to the Hyde Park and Woodlawn neighborhoods.
The market occurs at the Experimental Station – a non-profit incubator of various projects and small-scale enterprises. By the way, it offers seller training to 15 candidates each year so that the farmers and producers have a basic understanding of how to sell their goods at the market.
15. Northcenter Farmers Market
Where: Northcenter Town Square, 4100 N. Damen
When: June-October, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The center of the North Side is not only home to Chicago’s oldest radio station but also one of the oldest seasonal farmers markets in the area. This is a dog-friendly venue where you can shop for fruits, veggies, meats, eggs, and baked goods, as well as gourmet-flavored marshmallows, mushroom coffee, and cinnamon rolls. You’ll see bands and dancers perform on the main stage, so you might want to stop by and enjoy the show.
Sunday Markets
16. Logan Square Farmers Market
Where: 2808 N Milwaukee Ave
When: May-October, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The Logan Square Farmers Market was established back in 2005. It has been voted ‘the best farmers market’ a few years in a row in Chicago Reader.
It is definitely the one that you should arrive at early if you want to get the best fruits, vegetables, and pastries. But if you’d prefer to come during the afternoon – don’t worry; there will still be many things left for you to try out.
The market features plenty of booths with delicious foods that you can devour right on Logan Square’s historic boulevard. You can also participate in various family activities and listen to live music while you’re there.
By the way, the place features not only local vendors but also sellers from Michigan and Wisconsin. During the colder time of the year, the hosts sometimes organize an indoor market as well (but do bear in mind that it does not happen every year).
17. Maxwell Street Market
Where: 800 S Desplaines St
When: April-December, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Why to Visit:
The original Maxwell Street Market was established in the late 19th century! Back then, the streets would get filled with Klezmer music brought by Jewish immigrants.
As the neighborhood changed throughout the years, so did the music that was played in the streets. In fact, this is the exact place where Chicago Blues originated from.
It is definitely worth paying a visit to this historic place, especially if you love bargain hunting. Of course, you can find a wide range of seasonal produce here, but many visitors see themselves returning to Maxwell Street Market because of the delicious food.
It is also a great spot to look for unique handmade crafts, housewares, clothing, and antiques – you might end up spending quite a few hours exploring what every vendor has to offer.
Apart from live music and dance performances, you’d also be able to enjoy arts activities (while supplies last).
18. Pilsen Community Market
Where: Plaza Tenochtitlan (1821 S Blue Island Ave)
When: May-October, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Why to Visit:
This is a smaller Chicago farmers market, which makes it extra charming. The choice of fruits and vegetables is not wide, but there are still quite a few things to choose from. You can also stock up on honey and herbal teas at this place.
Many people come here to discover handmade jewelry and thrift in unique clothing pieces. The market also has an open mic most days (you can easily book a 5-minute slot by simply sending a DM to the hosts).
There are a few food trucks where you can have a delicious and quick meal before you head to…get a tarot reading! Yeah, there is always something exciting going on in this market.
19. Wicker Park Farmers Market
Where: 1425 N Damen Ave
When: May-October, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM
Why to Visit:
Wicker Park Farmers Market has been a part of the community’s life for over 20 years already. The market went plastic-free this year, so next time you decide to come and shop here, you will have to bring your own bags and containers.
Over 40 vendors present their produce at the market. You’ll find plenty of fresh fruits, veggies, and yummy grab-and-go food.
The complimentary program includes yoga sessions, book swaps, musical acts, and storytime for kids. Make sure to check the schedule before you come so that you don’t miss anything.
20. 95th Street Farmers Market
Where: 1827 W 95th St
When: May-November, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM
Why to Visit:
In 1979, the City of Chicago established the Farmers and Community Markets program. That’s when the 95th Street Farmers Market became the neighborhood’s staple.
In recent years, the market has expanded a lot. It now includes not only the actual vendors but also family-friendly programming with fun activities like face painting and live music.
The vendor lineup at this Sunday’s farmers market in Chicago includes tamales, BBQ, fresh juices, heirloom seedlings, and much more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest farmers’ market in Chicago?
Green City Market is the largest year-round farmers’ market. It has two locations, each of which with an extensive vendor list.
What are the good Chicago Farmers Market Saturdays?
It’s extremely easy to stumble into a Saturday farmers market in Chicago. Some of the most popular ones include Division Street Farmers Market and South Loop Farmers Market – Printers Row.
What are the good Chicago Farmers Market Sundays?
Wicker Park Farmers Market is a large Sunday farmers market in Chicago. You might also want to pay a visit to Logan Square Farmers Market, which has been the crowds’ favorite for quite a few years already.
What are the famous Chicago farmers’ markets?
Logan Square Farmers Market, Green City Market, Andersonville Farmers Market, Northcenter Farmers Market, and Englewood City Market might be the most popular ones.
Wrapping Up
Visiting a farmers market in Chicago is an easy way to connect with your local community and the people who grow or raise your food. It is also a fantastic opportunity to support small family businesses. And let’s not forget that shopping at a Chicago farmers market is one of the best ways to buy fresh and healthy foods for your table.
Attending such a market at least once a week can become a wonderful tradition. If you can’t help but do that a little more often – then the Windy City is one of the best places for that, as finding an open market even on a Tuesday morning is as simple as opening this guide.