Ripe tomatoes, red and gleaming—bunches of carrots—fresh baked bread, hot and moist—blooming lilacs, roses, irises, and geraniums. All together in one place, under the Chicago sun.
A trip to a Farmer’s Market on a sunny afternoon is an activity that is perfect for any age. The liveliness of the atmosphere and abundance of fresh products create an experience that is more than simply shopping: it is an experience of celebration and joy within the community and nature to which we belong.
Here are my Top Five Farmers’ Markets in the Chicago North Shore you don’t want to miss this summer and fall!
1. Evanston Farmer’s Market
When: Saturdays 7:30AM-1:00PM
Where: Intersection of University Place and Oak Avenue, Evanston
Website: http://www.cityofevanston.org/enjoy/market.shtml
Facts: 30+ vendors of fruit, vegetables, meat, flowers, cheese and bakery items. “Now We’re Cookin” Culinary Service Center and “Home Grown Artists” will be at the Market on certain Saturdays. Senior coupons available on website. Famous for its fresh produce.
2. Deerfield Farmer’s Market
When: Saturdays 7AM-12:30PM, starting June 20
Where: Northwest Corner of Deerfield Road and Robert York Ave, Deerfield
Website: http://www.deerfield.il.us/residents/farmers_market/default.aspx
Facts: Farmers from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin sell seasonal vegetables and fruit. Organic and naturally grown vegetables and flowers. Freshly baked breads, muffins and cookies. Handcrafted Wisconsin cheese, maple syrup, and honey.
3. Glenview Farmer’s Market
When: Saturdays 8AM-12PM, starting June 27
Where: Wagner Farm @ 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview
Website: http://www.glenviewfarmersmarket.org/
Facts: 17+ vendors from Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. Features artisan crafts on a regular basis. New in 2009 is the “Green Table,” featuring local experts who will provide education on sustainable living. Products include fresh berries, hormone-free meat from Arnolds Farm, buttermilk, ice cream, vegetables, fruits, and plants.
4. Skokie Farmer’s Market
When: Sundays 7:30AM-12:45PM, starting June 28
Where: 5127 Oakton Street, Skokie
Website: http://www.skokie.org/FarmersMarket.cfm
Facts: Voted “Best on the North Shore” by North Shore Magazine readers in July/August 2001 issue. About 20 vendors selling cheeses, fruits, baked goods, spices, pasta, syrup and vegetables. Top products include Wisconsin cheeses.
5. Wilmette French Market
When: Saturdays 8AM-1PM
Where: Village Center on Central Avenue and Green Bay Road, Wilmette
Website: http://www.wilmette.com/business/frenchmarket.aspx
Facts: The French Market offers a variety of traditional farmer’s market goods including fruits, vegetables, flowers, cheeses, meats, and breads from local and regional vendors.