Chicagoans looking to kick off their Thursdays with fresh fruit, garden blooms, and made-from-scratch treats can head to Daley Plaza starting this week. The city's oldest farmers market is officially back.
The Daley Plaza Farmers Market opens for the season on Thursday, May 22, and will run every Thursday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October 23. Located in the heart of the Loop at 50 W. Washington St., the market will once again host more than 40 vendors offering locally grown produce, prepared foods, flowers, handmade goods, and more.
It's not just about shopping -- it's about supporting Chicago's small farms and food makers while building community in the city's civic center.
"This market is a staple for so many people," said Sandra Carrera, DCASE's Farmers Market program manager, who will be available for interviews alongside vendors on opening day.
Among this year's vendors are familiar names like Nichols Farm & Orchard, River Valley Ranch, Delightful Pastries, and Stamper Cheese, along with newcomers such as Vangie's Farm, Daisies, Onigiri Kororin, and Tasting India.
In addition to returning favorites, this season brings a new Seed Swap and Seedling Sale on Thursday, May 29, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gardeners of all levels can trade seeds, pick up healthy seedlings, and connect with other plant lovers ahead of the summer growing season.
Also returning is the Link Match program, which allows shoppers using SNAP benefits to double their purchasing power -- up to $25 per swipe -- thanks to support from Link Up Illinois. It's part of a broader effort to make healthy, local food more accessible, especially in neighborhoods identified by the USDA as food deserts.
The Daley Plaza Farmers Market is part of the broader Chicago Farmers Markets network, which extends across the city, from the Gold Coast to Roseland. The goal: fresh food for all, no matter the ZIP code.