One of the sure signs that spring has arrived in Chicagoland is the emergence of the outdoor farmers markets. Brimming with locally grown produce, seasonal flowers, meats, cheeses and artisan breads, these bountiful and colorful markets are a delight for the senses!
While a few hearty souls open their outdoor markets during April (we’re saluting you… Lincoln Park, Wheaton and Geneva!) the majority of city and suburban farmers markets make their appearance during the month of May. From Chicago’s Loop to Oak Park, Glen Ellyn to Batavia, residents enjoy shaking off the winter cobwebs and visiting these lively, open air destinations. Here's a few of our favorites....
Wheaton French Market
One of the longest running markets is in west suburban Wheaton. Wheaton’s French Market opened in 1997 with 20 vendors. Now in its 26th year (and located under a new pavilion at the corner of Liberty and Main) it boasts over 100 vendors selling produce, meats, cheese, honey, sauces, fresh baked goods and a variety of clothing, jewelry and decor. In addition to being in the heart of Wheaton’s downtown, the Wheaton French Market has the advantage of being just off the Illinois Prairie Path and convenient for cyclists and joggers. This is a bustling and lively Saturday morning market!
Geneva French Market
The Geneva French Market is held every Sunday in charming downtown Geneva. Offering local produce, fresh baked goods (including our favorite donut ever from Hahn’s Bakery!), empanadas, textiles and unique gifts, the French Market is a great place to begin a Sunday! Located in the Metra parking lot at South & 4th Streets, you can also stroll to the unique shops and restaurants in downtown or over to enjoy the views along the Fox River.
Batavia Farmers Market
Also along the banks of the Fox River is the quaint town of Batavia. Beginning in May, the Batavia Farmers Market graces North River Street (between Wilson and Spring Streets) every Saturday. The market features a great selection of fresh cut flowers, meats and cheeses, beignets and coffee, houseplants, soaps, and jewelry. On the 3rd Saturday of each month the market features the ‘Artisan Collective’ where you can enjoy shopping for handmade items from your favorite local artists, makers and designers.
Click on the names below to visit some of the popular markets in Chicago and the Western/Southwestern Suburbs…
Chicago Lincoln Park — Wednesdays 7a-1p and Saturdays 7a-1p
Chicago Lincoln Square Farmers Market — Tuesdays 7a-12p and Thursdays 3-7p
Chicago West Loop — Saturdays 8a-1p
Chicago Wicker Park Farmers Market — Sundays 8a-12p
Chicago Logan Square Farmers Market — Sundays 9a-3p
Chicago Gallagher Way @ Wrigley Field — select Thursdays throughout the summer, 4-8p (begins May 18)
Batavia Farmers Market — Saturdays 8a-12p (begins May 20)
Bloomingdale Maker’s Market — Last Sunday of each month (begins May 28)
Downers Grove Downtown Market — Saturdays 7a-12:30p
Elmhurst Summer Market — Wednesdays 7a-1p (begins June 7)
Geneva French Market — Sundays 9a-12p
Glen Ellyn French Market — Sundays 9a-2p
La Grange Farmers Market — Thursdays 7a-1p
Lemont Market on Canal— Sundays 9a-3p... $5 entry, purchase online or at the gate
Lisle French Market — Saturdays 8a-1p
Lombard Farmers Market — Tuesdays 2-7p (begins May 23)
Naperville Farmers Market — Saturday’s 7a-12p (begins June 3)
Oak Park Farmers Market — Saturdays 7a-1p (begins May 20)
Wheaton French Market — Saturdays 8a-2p
Western Springs French Market — Fridays 7a-1p
Winfield Farmers Market — Wednesdays 7a-1p (begins May 31)
