A.V. Club's Milwaukee farmers market guide
Seven places you have to buy your fresh veggies from this summer
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It’s no secret that we like to eat here in Milwaukee, but for all our gluttony, we’re hardly indiscriminate. Being only a generation or two removed from our farming ancestors, we know a good, fresh zucchini when we taste it, and one of the best things about the summer is the abundance—albeit short-lived—of farm fresh foods. Having spent the long winter mindlessly eating frozen vegetables or, worse, aged “fresh” produce trucked in from warmer climates, some of us are more than ready to hit the farmers markets once summer rolls around. There are 16 farmers markets in Milwaukee County, and Decider has rounded up a few favorites.
Fondy Farmers Market
When: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from June 27 through Oct. 31, and Saturdays in May and November.
Where: 2200 W. Fond du Lac Ave.
Why we like it: This market is all about the veggies. It’s fun to check out arts and crafts while perusing beans and broccoli, but sometimes you just want to get down to business. Started as an effort to combat the dearth of inexpensive and healthy food options, the Fondy Farmers Market has grown into Milwaukee’s largest farmers market and features one of the most diverse veggie lineups around.
East Side Green Market
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays from June 27 through Oct. 10.
Where: Beans & Barley’s parking lot.
Why we like it: It’s in Beans And Barley’s parking lot, which means two things: (1) A lot of people can walk or bike there, and 2) you can have breakfast at Beans before shopping. Need more reasons to love this little market? Much of the produce is grown in Milwaukee. Also, it has live music, features local artists, and starts later than most—so you don’t have to get up with the birds to avoid ugly, rejected veggies picked over by insufferable morning people.
West Allis Farmers Market
When: Noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays through November.
Where: 65th Street and National Avenue.
Why we like it: This market starts even later than the East Side market, so there’s no excuse for missing it. The late start means local farmers can pick the veggies the same day you buy them. Plus, it’s been operating since 1919, which is kind of cool.
Westown Farmers Market
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays through Oct. 28.
Where: Zeidler Union Square (301 W. Michigan St.).
Why we like it: It’s held during the workweek, with musicians playing from 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.—lunch hours. This means downtown workers can get a little break from their fluorescent-lit jobs and enjoy an actual event on hump day, when they need it most. Grab lunch, listen to some music, and then (sigh) get back to work.
East Town Market
When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays from June 6 through Oct. 31.
Where: Cathedral Square Park.
Why we like it: It’s got live entertainment, including chef competitions and music each week, plus more than 80 vendors. But the really cool thing about this market is the free yoga class at 9 a.m. Of course, it’s probably just a clever ploy—after an energizing sun salutation, who wouldn't go crazy buying farm-fresh veggies?
South Shore Farmers Market
When: 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays from June 21 through Oct. 18.
Where: South Shore Park.
Why we like it: You can bring your dog to this lakeside park to keep you company while you ogle the cauliflower and squash in Bay View. This is a large and well-attended market with live music, which makes it all the more fun.
Outdoor Urban Market
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays through October 17.
Where: Outside the Milwaukee Public Market.
Why we like it: It’s right between the Milwaukee Public Market and Good Harvest Market, which means you can head inside for food items you don’t usually find at Milwaukee farmers markets, like fresh fish and cheese.
