By Scout Nelson
Minnesota will celebrate National Farmers Market Week from August 3 to 9 with events across nine locations. Organized by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), this celebration includes partners such as Minnesota Grown, Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association, Minnesota Farmers Union, and the Land Stewardship Project.
There are 402 farmers’ markets and over 10,000 vendors throughout Minnesota and Tribal Nations. These markets support local economies, provide access to fresh, local food, and strengthen communities. Many markets also offer nutrition programs that help families afford healthy food, along with culturally relevant produce that reflect Minnesota’s diverse population.
“With over 400 markets across the state, there’s likely a farmers’ market near you,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “Markets rely on the support of their shoppers to remain thriving spaces for local food access and a vital source of income for Minnesota farmers. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is grateful to the market managers, vendors, and volunteers who make farmers’ markets possible.”
Recognizing their value, Minnesota lawmakers created a new grant program in 2024 to support these markets. A total of $146,669 was awarded to 29 farmers’ markets to strengthen nutrition assistance programs and improve food access.
“Investing in farmers’ markets means investing in the health of our communities and market access opportunities for growers,” said Laura Schreiber, government relations director at Land Stewardship Project.
Minnesotans are encouraged to use this week to explore their local markets and continue supporting them year-round. Tools like the Minnesota Grown directory and the MFMA map help residents locate nearby markets.
These markets are essential to the state’s food system, connecting communities to fresh, local products while supporting small farmers and healthy eating.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Minnesota, General, Government & Policy