Dane County Farmers' Market returns to the Square this weekend

There are few things Madisonians enjoy more than outdoor farmers' market season.  On April 21 the Dane County Farmer’s Market leaves its winter location at the Madison Senior Center and returns to the Capitol Square until November 10. 

This summer season consumers can expect to see some slight changes in produce due to the warm spring weather. 

“Produce such as morel mushrooms and asparagus are going to be available much earlier than usual,” said Dane County Market Manager Larry Johnson.  

As the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country, the 170 plus vendors present continue to sell only products they make here in Wisconsin.  Johnson said this distinguishes the market from others around the country.

Moving out of the winter season, attendance is expected to increase.  While Johnson said attendance in the winter still reaches into the hundreds, a good summer day can see an outdoor crowd of 20,000. 

“The Dane County Farmers Market is a social hub that is a great place to buy local food and do grocery shopping,” said Johnson.

Market vendors can decide to participate in both the winter and summer seasons or just one.  They choose based on what products they have to offer and their availability. Summer vendors are primarily the same as those last year with only five vendors leaving and five new vendors coming in.

“The five new vendors are mainly vegetable farmers,” said Johnson.  

The Farm-Fresh Atlas will be handed out to attendees for opening weekend, a publication that helps consumers connect with local farms in Southern Wisconsin. The arts and crafts market also returns to the Square this Saturday.   

Johnson expects a great season for the market.

“Madison is a very food conscious community and we really appreciate their support,” he said.