Farmers Markets Near St. Cloud
The St. Cloud area is home to a vibrant community of local growers and artisans, and this is best showcased at its thriving farmers' markets. These markets offer a chance to connect directly with the people who grow and produce your food, from fresh-picked produce to artisan goods.
The St. Cloud Area Farmers' Market is a cornerstone of the local food scene. Held in the heart of downtown, it's a bustling Saturday morning tradition for many residents.
Location: The Lady Slipper Parking Lot, located downtown at the corner of 10th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, across from the new Children's Museum.
Schedule: The market operates every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., from May through October.
What to Find: This market features a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs. You'll also find locally raised meats and dairy products, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, and an assortment of plants and cut flowers. The market is a member of Minnesota Grown and often features live music and special events.
Based on my research, here are more detailed specifics about the Sartell Farmers' Market:
The Sartell Farmers' Market offers both a summer and a winter season, providing residents with access to local products year-round. It is a community-focused market that aims to be a gathering place for the community. In addition to the vendors, the Sartell Farmers' Market often features special events and live entertainment, making it a community gathering spot for people to connect.
Summer Market Details
Location: The summer market is held at the Scheels Athletic Complex, specifically at Bernicks Arena - Pine Cone North, located at 1109 1st St. S, Sartell, MN 56377.
Schedule: The summer market operates on Mondays from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The season typically runs from early May through mid-October. This weekday schedule provides a convenient option for residents to shop for fresh goods after work.
Vendors & Products: The market focuses on locally grown and produced agricultural, culinary, and handcrafted products. Vendors are generally growers or producers from within a 40-mile radius of the city.
Winter Market Details
Location: The winter market is held indoors at the Sartell Community Center, located at 850 19th St S, Sartell, MN 56377.
Schedule: The winter market has a more limited schedule, typically operating on select dates in the colder months. In the past, this has been on a Friday, and sometimes includes a November market and dates in March and April.
What to Find: The winter market provides an opportunity to purchase goods from vendors who have products that store well or are produced indoors, such as baked goods, honey, canned products, and some crafts.
The St. Joseph Farmers' Market is one of the oldest and most beloved markets in Central Minnesota. It's known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community focus.
Location: The Lake Wobegon Trailhead, in the Resurrection Lutheran Church parking lot, 610 County Road 2, St. Joseph.
Schedule: The market is held on Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., running from May through October.
What to Find: This market prides itself on its close relationship with local growers and artisans. Visitors can find an array of seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs, as well as jams, hearth-baked breads, fine pastries, and flowers. The market is also a participant in the Farmers' Market Nutrition Program for WIC and low-income seniors, and offers a SNAP/EBT match program called Market Bucks.
The Sauk Rapids Farmers' Market provides a convenient weekday option for residents to purchase fresh, local goods. The market's afternoon schedule makes it a great stop for people on their way home from work to pick up ingredients for dinner or to simply enjoy the local offerings.
Location: It is located in the parking lot of Sauk Rapids Coborn's, at 110 1st St S, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379.
Schedule: The market is held on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., running from May through October.
What to Find: As a community gathering place, the Sauk Rapids Farmers' Market focuses on connecting consumers directly with local growers and producers. While vendor lists can change from year to year, visitors can generally expect to find a wide variety of products, including:
Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables
Baked goods and other prepared food items
Honey and maple syrup
Handcrafted goods and artisan products