Madison's Market Offers Food and Crafts

The Madison Market, also called the Dane County Farmer's Market, brings residents and visitors food, fun, and handicrafts every Wednesday during the season and Saturday all year long. The market is filled with flowers, produce, and crafts from vendors that live in the Midwest area. Up to 300 vendors attend through the year and you can expect to shop among at least 150 every week. This is the largest producer-only farmer's market in the United States. It is easy to reach, has ample parking, and accepts EBT FoodShare payments, so anyone can enjoy the fruits and vegetables of local farmers. The market asks that visitors not bring their dogs along, which may be different than other markets you have attended, but it is for the safety of both the dog and the other guests.

The market is ful of activities and shopping. Along the perimeter of the state capitol grounds vendors line up to sell their produce and products. There is a long waiting list for area farmers, so you will always shave a number of items from which to choose. The grounds are also full of people promoting non-profit and political causes, as well as distributing public information. In this area are also a vast aray of entertainment options. Across the street from the square are arts and crafts vendors. This is one of the most popular places for those attending the market, especially for those visiting from out of the area. If you are vacationing in or around Madison, you can take home a unique, handmade item. All throughout the market are street musicians, adding to the ambiance of the experience.

The farmer's market considers itself a major part of the Madison community. The market gives farmers of Wisconsin's agricultural community alternate marketing opportunities. They promote the sale of Wisconsin farm products, the provide urban farmers a chance to deal directly with the community, and they provide an edication arena in which consumers can learn about the products and benefits of eating fresh from the farmer produce. Instead of heading to a grocery store or supermarket, you can purchase food direct from the grower while learning about what you are eating and why it is good for you. The market seeks to honor the agricultural heritage of Wisconsin and help them flourish in the community.

In 1972, the mayor of Madison saw a need to bring together the community and allow farmers and craftsman to share their products. By 1974 the market was flourishing and had grown enough to add a second day of the week to the Saturday gathering. No matter how much the market grows and changes, the organizers of the market always remember their original mission. Vendors are members of an organized co-op that has a board of director. This allows those selling at the market to play a role in the direction of the market. If you are headed to Madison and looking for a unique shopping experience, visit the Dane County Farmer's Market.