Are you in a Sam’s Club slump? A Costco crisis? Shake up your grocery shopping routine at a Washtenaw County food institution that’s been in business for 100 years.
“There are so many things the Ann Arbor Farmers Market offers – fresh food, healthy local produce and a chance to meet the farmers and artists who grow and make what you’re buying,” says farmers market manager Stephanie Willette.
The market’s official centennial celebration is on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, and features a performance by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra. But join in the party all summer with food truck rallies, kids activities and more.
Here are some highlights.
Food trucks
For local grub and live music concerts, hit a food truck rally on first Wednesdays.
Give 365 also sets up a play area with a beanbag toss, play kitchen, giant Connect 4 and more. They’re 5-8 p.m. on July 3, Aug. 7, Sept. 4 and Oct. 2, 2019.
Giving back
Last year, 34,476 pounds of food was donated to the nonprofit Food Gatherers by market vendors. The goal is to end hunger and stop food waste.
Changing times
Until the ’60s, vendors had to compete for stalls. Some stayed at the market overnight or got there at 2 a.m. to make sure they got a spot!
Learn more at the Ann Arbor District Library, which hosts a market archive all summer.
Vendor spotlights
Carol Scott has sold her handmade kids clothing here for 26 years. Learn about other vendors each month on the market’s website.
CSAs
Of the 324 community-supported agriculture farms in Michigan, 11 can be found here. Visit the stands to find out how you can support a local farm in exchange for the freshest produce, dairy, fish or meat available.
Cooking demos
Get tips from local chefs to give your meals a boost on third Wednesdays. On July 17, 2019, learn some Zingerman’s secrets from Chef Bob Bennett.
Meet at the market
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is located at 315 Detroit St. in Ann Arbor. It is open from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday. For more information about the market or any of the kid-friendly happenings there, visit a2farmersmarket.org.
