7 Farmers Markets Around Rochester You Should Visit

If the idea of eating freshly harvested fruits and vegetables appeals to you, consider shopping at your local farmers’ market. It’s a terrific outdoor activity to do during the summer months. Stick around as we introduce the top seven farmers’ markets near Rochester, Minnesota, you should visit this season.

Why Shop at a Farmers’ Market?

Many Rochester residents enjoy the benefits of picking up fresh produce and other products directly from regional farmers. Shopping local markets have many benefits, such as:

• Farm fresh produce is better for you. 
• Many growers use organic or non-GMO farming methods.
• A seasonal style of eating is considered “more natural” by dietitians.
• Foods picked at the peak of ripeness taste better than canned or frozen goods.
• Farmers’ markets are often more affordable, as they bypass the middlemen, like distribution centers, packaging plants, and trucking companies.
• Your purchase supports family farms and the local economy.
• Small farms are generally better for the environment than large, industrialized growers.
• Going to the farmers’ market is a fun outing that may lead to a lasting family tradition.

Rochester Farmers’ Market

Nourish yourself and your family with goodies from the Rochester Farmers’ Market. It’s an easy way for the community to support local farmers and the ideal place to load up on healthy and delicious foods throughout the year. Vendors host the event on the Olmsted County Fairgrounds at Graham Park. 

There’s so much to do at this festive market, including:

• Sample a variety of delicious foods from baked goods to honey.
• Get to know farm-fresh produce outside your staples. 
• Meet the person who grows your food. 
• Browse vendor and artisan booths. 

At Rochester’s market, you can get:

• A variety of seasonal produce.
• Meats like beef, pork, chicken, bison, and elk.
• Shrimp and fish.
• Cheese, ice cream, and milk.
• Plants and flower arrangements.
• Baked goods and bread.
• Donuts and desserts.
• Preserves, jams, syrup, and salsa.
• Herbs and spices.

The Rochester market’s summer season runs from the first Saturday in May until the last Saturday of October. The fall and winter market starts in November and is on select Saturdays. You can also conveniently order your goodies online. There’s abundant free parking, and it’s leashed-dog and kid-friendly.

Pine Island Farmers’ Market and Crafts

There are countless reasons to support your local growers at Pine Island Farmers’ Market. Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, this marketplace takes place every Friday afternoon between June and October. You’ll find it set up on the grass in Wiletzko Park, behind Island Market. Here you can shop for:

• Fresh produce, from beets to zucchini.
• Canned goods.
• Handmade crafts.
• Soap.

There are onsite restroom facilities and a playground for the kiddos. Consider riding your bike. There’s a tune-up station in the Trailhead Park area. Pro tip: bring cash, especially small bills, so the vendors don’t have to make changes.

St. Charles Farmers’ Market

Connect with your community at St. Charles Farmers’ Market at the St. Charles City Hall on Whitewater Avenue. The market brings together residents, local growers, and artisans every Thursday afternoon from mid-May to mid-October. You’ll find plenty of high-quality, handmade products, coffee, and treats. Browse for baby blankets, tie-dyed items, and decorative items, like gourds.

Farmers Market Place LLC

Farmers Market Place LLC is open Monday through Thursday between mid-May and the end of October. The one-way road at 8th Street Southwest in Austin is closed off for the bazaar. There are also extra precautions in place during the pandemic. Remember, only one family member should shop at a time.

Farmers Market Place is a producer-only market, meaning that you buy your goods right from the person who makes and grows them. These local vendors sell:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Eggs.
• Baked goods.
• Jams and jellies.
• Home and garden decor.

This market accepts a variety of payment methods, including:

• Cash.
• Credit/debit.
• EBT/SNAP.
• WIC/FMNP vouchers.

Red Wing Farmer’s Market 

Bring the family out for a day of food, fun, and free live entertainment. Located on Levee Street in the nearby town of Red Wing, this open-air market hosts summer, winter, and weekday events.

It’s operated by nearly two dozen growers, producers, and bakers that live, farm, and garden within a 60-mile radius of the market, such as River Road Honey Farm. These member vendors must maintain the highest cultivation standards and practice age-old farming traditions. Its mission is to provide people like you with convenient access to the freshest locally grown foods directly from the farmer, all within a socially enriching environment.

Head to the Red Wing Farmers Market down by the train depot every Saturday, rain or shine, between June and October. Don’t forget to inquire about the market token system at the information booth. You can shop for loads of items with your credit, debit, and EBT cards, such as:

• Fresh produce.
• Meat.
• Syrups and honey.
• Salsa.
• Baked goods.
• Garlic.
• Woodcrafts.
• Plants for the garden and inside your home.

Preston Farmer’s Market

This weekly event starts on the first Friday in May and goes until the end of October. It’s situated at the bike trailhead in nearby Preston and features local gardeners and artisans that offer the freshest seasonal fruits and vegetables, some organically raised. You’ll also find:

• Naturally-raised chickens and eggs.
• Homemade baked goods.
• Preserves and vinegar.
• Bedding plants.
• Walnuts.
• Pet food.
• Home-crafted items.

Wabasha Farmers Market

Wabasha’s market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday from mid-May to October. You can locate it on Main Street West and Allegheny Avenue next to Hill’s Hardware. The Wabasha Farmers’ Market now accepts EBT/SNAP, debit, and credit cards. Available products include:

• A variety of fresh local seasonal produce.
• Meats like bison, lamb, and turkey.
• Preserves.
• Bread and baked goods.
• Plants, herbs, and flowers.
• Eggs.
• Canned goods and pickles. 
• Locally produced craft items.

Well, that’s a wrap! This guide to the farmers’ markets around Rochester, Minnesota, was brought to you by Tom Kadlec Kia. What do you and your family enjoy best about farmers’ markets? Drop us a line and let us know!

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