Downtown Farmers' Market Commemorates 50 Years of Community and Fresh Produce

Downtown Farmers' Market Kicks Off 50th Season on May 3

The Downtown Farmers' Market, proudly presented by UnityPoint Health, is gearing up for a significant milestone: its 50th season, set to commence on Saturday, May 3. Located in the Historic Court District of Downtown Des Moines, this beloved market has become a staple for locals and visitors alike, drawing crowds for decades.

The Market's Evolution Over the Years

Founded in 1976 with just 15 vendors and approximately 200 initial shoppers, the Downtown Farmers' Market has witnessed exponential growth and popularity. Today, the market boasts over 300 vendors and attracts tens of thousands of visitors every Saturday. Opening day alone typically sees around 40,000 enthusiastic shoppers eager to dive into the season's offerings.

From fresh produce and locally sourced meats to artisanal baked goods, the market provides a diverse range of products that cater to the tastes and preferences of the community. Local farmers, artists, and food producers from 38 counties across Iowa come together to create a vibrant marketplace that not only nourishes the body but also strengthens community ties.

Celebrating Community and Fresh Local Products

Elizabeth Weyers, the Market Manager, expressed her excitement for this milestone. "Opening day of the Downtown Farmers' Market's 50th season is a celebration of the community not just here in Downtown DSM but all over the Greater Des Moines region and state," she remarked. The Market not only serves as a place to shop but also as a social hub where patrons can relax, enjoy live entertainment, and connect with friends and family.

This year's opening day is poised to be particularly special, featuring 49 new vendors that will expand the offerings to even greater heights. The market footprint will also increase to include 12 city blocks, reflecting the growing interest in local goods and services.

New Initiatives and Support for Local Vendors

The Downtown Farmers' Market aims to enhance its community impact with new initiatives this season. One such initiative is the Friends of The Market program, inviting individuals and private foundations to contribute towards the market's growth and sustainability. This program emphasizes personal contributions rather than corporate sponsorship, highlighting the community's role in supporting local entrepreneurship.

Additionally, the market will collaborate with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, focusing on food assistance programs like Produce RX and Double Up Food Bucks to ensure that healthy, local food is accessible to all, fostering a healthier community.

Spark DSM Business Incubator and Volunteering Opportunities

Continuing its commitment to fostering local businesses, the Market will also welcome back the Spark DSM Business Incubator. This program offers selected vendors vital access to educational resources and multiple market appearances throughout the season. Impressively, 11 vendors from the 2024 cohort have progressed to become regulars at the market in 2025.

For those longing to participate more actively, the market is now inviting volunteers to sign up through VolunteerLocal. This not only provides an avenue for community involvement but also enhances the overall market experience for all attendees.

A Vision for a Vibrant Community

The significance of the Downtown Farmers' Market transcends beyond just food; it embodies the essence of community interaction and support. Jon Rozenfeld, President of UnityPoint Health – Des Moines, emphasized this sentiment, stating, "We are proud to support the Downtown Farmers' Market as it celebrates its 50th season, bringing fresh, local food and a sense of community to Downtown DSM."

The market remains a key player in facilitating connections between local farmers, small businesses, and community health, reinforcing that access to nutritious food is instrumental in promoting longevity and wellness within the community.

For more information on vendors, events, and volunteer opportunities, be sure to visit the Downtown Farmers' Market's official website. Join us in celebrating 50 years of local goodness and community spirit this May!

About the Downtown Farmers' Market

Every Saturday from May to October, the Downtown Farmers' Market takes place in the Historic Court District of Downtown Des Moines. For additional details, including information on the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market in November, visit desmoinesfarmersmarket.com.

Join Us!

Let's celebrate this momentous occasion together and support local farmers and artisans while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that has become a cherished tradition in the heart of Des Moines.