Batavia Farmers Market Season Nears: See When It Starts

BATAVIA, IL — Mark your calendars because the opportunity to buy fresh produce in the warm, fresh air is just days away.

The Batavia Farmers Market is kicking off its 32nd outdoor season May 16 on North River Street.

The market will run from 8 a.m. to noon each Saturday through Oct. 24. Almost 60 vendors are expected weekly, with each required to grow, harvest or produce at least 75 percent of the products they sell.

Among new vendors this year are North Sky Farm, bringing certified organic cow's milk cheese to the market; Banter Marketplace, with their sweet and savory baked goods; Yallatizers, selling Mediterranean hummus and salad; Connor's Cookies, featuring handmade wheat-free dog treats; and Lil C's, serving made-from-scratch mini cheesecakes.

Returning favorites include Flat Tire Farm, Fox Flower Farm, Stamper Cheese, Mighty Greens Farm, Sol Gardens, Crumble, Hufendick Farms, Stojan's Family Farm and Van Laar's Fruit Farm.

The farmers market "is more than just a shopping experience — it's a community hub," organizers said. Families can visit the Kids Tent for free activities, and visitors can check out the Community Tent for live music.

Plus, every third Saturday, The Artisan Collective will pop up to feature local artisans showcasing handmade and vintage goods.

The Batavia farmers market accepts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and offers Link Match, a U.S. Department of Agriculture-sponsored incentive that doubles SNAP dollars for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables.

The farmers market will share weekly vendor listings, updates and special features on its Facebook and Instagram pages.