Image credit: Moving Moment/Adobe Stock
With summer in full swing, farmers markets are now open to local shoppers across the country. We love this time of year, not only because the Twin Cities offer countless incredible markets, but because it really brings us back to our roots.
For those of you who don’t know, The Cookie Cups started out with our creator Nicole Pomije baking cookie cups in her home kitchen and selling them at local farmers markets. As we grew, we transitioned to our current Wayzata bakery, but we have always been grateful for the community relationships we built with other Minneapolis area small businesses.
If you’re looking for some great farmers markets to visit this summer, grab your canvas bags and your appetites, and visit our five favorite Minneapolis farmers markets!
1. Centennial Lakes Farmers Market (Edina)
7499 France Ave. S., Edina
Thursdays, Jun. 6 through Sept. 26, 2019, 3 to 7 p.m.
Website
This farmers market offers top-quality produce from more than 30 vendors, stationed along the walkway outside the Hughes Pavilion. The market provides complimentary parking, so come by and spend your whole Thursday afternoon here. We love that Centennial Lakes market partners with VEAP to provide thousands of pounds of fresh produce for local families.
2. Excelsior Farmers Market (Excelsior)
Water Street, Downtown Excelsior
Tuesdays, May 22 through Sept. 25, 2019, 2 to 6 p.m.
Website
The Excelsior Farmers Market strives to be a local destination where community can get together and be a part of the locally grown healthy food movement. With more than 50 diverse vendors, from produce and meats to artisans and baked goods, you’re sure to find a stand you love at this market.
3. Maple Grove Farmers Market (Maple Grove)
12951 Weaver Lake Road, Maple Grove
Thursdays, May 16 through Oct. 24, 2019, 3 to 7 p.m.
Website
Located at The Maple Grove Community Center, this indoor and outdoor farmers market serves as a gathering place for farmers and producers alike. This market maintains a commitment to fresh agriculture and supports small growers. Maple Grove hosts special events throughout the summer and runs a Power of Produce (PoP) Kids Club to empower the next generation to learn about healthy foods.
4. Chanhassen Farmers Market (Chanhassen)
City Center Park parking lot (between the library and Old National Bank)
Saturdays, June 1 through Oct. 12, 2019 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Website
If you’re looking for a great weekend activity with the family, spend a Saturday morning at Chanhassen Farmers Market. This relatively small market features 15 local vendors offering local cuisine and produce. If you’re visiting the market in August and beyond, be sure to stop by our soon-opening Chanhassen bakery on your way home!
5. Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market (Minneapolis)
629 2nd Street NE, Minneapolis
Saturdays, May 18 through Oct. 19, 2019, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Website
The Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market (NEFM) was the first community-based farmers market in the city. Founded in 2000, this nonprofit organization seeks to support its local neighborhood by making quality food and experiences available to all its residents. This inclusive market features 50-plus vendors selling a variety of artisan products. If you’re longing for a farmers market long after the harvest season is over, stop by NEFM during select Saturdays in the winter for its #FrostFreeMarket.
Visiting the Minneapolis area for a farmers market? Be sure to stop by The Cookie Cups for a delicious treat, or make it a full day trip by signing up for one of our cooking classes.