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How to Get the Most Out of Your Trip to the Downtown Farmers’ Market
As the 2021 Downtown Farmers’ Market enters into its last two months of the season, we wanted to let you know a few ways to get the most out of your visit, including preparing for your visit, staying comfortable while you shop, and more. Check out our ideas below:
Prepare for Your Visit Ahead of Time
Before you head downtown for The Market, check the website for parking info, a map of The Market, and peruse the 2021 vendor list. The FAQ page will also answer many of the questions you might have before you visit, such as COVID-19 guidelines, Market hours, and more.
Prior to Saturday, get the kids in the farmers’ market spirit by downloading some of our coloring pages and activity sheets. Fill out the Foods of the Rainbow questionnaire or the Complete the Missing Word worksheet as a family. When you get to The Market, expand on the activities and point out the items from the sheets as you see them!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Market spans nine city blocks along Court Avenue in the Historic Court District, each section filled with booths from an array of vendors. You won’t want to miss out on all the shopping opportunities between the Polk County Courthouse and the Principal Riverwalk, so pick out your most comfy pair of walking shoes for the occasion. Need a new pair of shoes? We’ve got that covered, too! Check out The Partnership’s member listings for ideas on where to purchase your next pair.
Planning on purchasing a large number of items? Find the Information Booth at Third Street and Court Avenue for details on borrowing a wagon from The Market’s free wagon lending program so you don’t have to carry all those purchases yourself!
Meet Up with Friends
Make the most out of your morning out at The Market by meeting up with your friends! Whether you’re focused on shopping for fresh fruits and veggies or just want to grab a breakfast burrito and hear some of the entertainment, bringing along a friend can help you shed the stress of the week and have a big impact on your physical and mental wellbeing. Along with The Market, there are also plenty of places to stop for a chat, including Java Joe’s Coffee House, open during The Market, or Johnny’s Hall of Fame or Spaghetti Works, which both open at 11 a.m., just in time for the lunch hour.
Explore Local Vendors
Finally, The Market is your chance to explore local vendors and support buying local in DSM initiatives. We are proud to host so many wonderful products in Downtown DSM. If you need some ideas on where to buy at the Market, check out these recent posts, which give a snapshot of some of our downtown vendors:
- Say Hello to Dog Patch Urban Gardens
- Say Hello to Simon’s Plant Collective
- Say Hello to Wit’s End
- Say Hello to Papercake Creations
- Say Hello to Bare Bison
- Say Hello to Mai Vang’s Fresh Produce
From May to October, experience local artists, live music, and entertainment at the Downtown Farmers’ Market featuring nearly 300 family farmers, bakers, artists, and crafters from around the state. It’s easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.