Our local farm market runs from mid-June through October here in northeastern Wisconsin. I am eagerly looking forward to it with great anticipation! For me, the first farmer’s market means the harbinger of summer and brings with it the promise of warm weather and long sunny days. I have been to many farm markets over the years, and I have to say, Appleton does an outstanding job! There is such a variety to be found here. You can find many unique items like authentic falafel, gourmet cheeses (from Wisconsin of course!), handcrafted woodwork, Amish baked goods and the best natural soap around! Of course this is a shameless plug for me but in reality my friend Linda (Thymes Past) makes some pretty nice stuff herself!
Over the years I have developed friendships with many of the local vendors. Michael and Leo of Prospera Farms sell their wonderful organic vegetables one stall over from me. They grow unique things that you can’t find anywhere else. They sell heirloom variety vegetables including tomatoes, fava beans, purple potatoes and even homemade dog treats (the ingredients are so good that Michael eats them).
Karen Keune of Keune Organic Meats sells organic vegetables right next to me. Another unique item she carries is free range chicken eggs. Once you have tried her eggs it is hard to go back to the ones you find at the grocery store.
Jennifer Stephany, Fat Cat Designs, and Lesia Ryerson sell awesome handcrafted jewelry right next to me. You can definitely find quality, one-of-a-kind items here. It makes me happy that they love my soap and like to trade with me! Jennifer is also the Director for Appleton Downtown Incorporated who sponsors the market.
If you like different meats, Terry Diedrich of Navarino Valley Ranch sells elk and buffalo that he raises on his farm in Shiocton. I am not much of a meat-eater but his Teriyaki jerky is pretty good. Susan of Catleanna Ranch sells grass-fed beef, pastured chickens, pigs and lambs.
Of course, early Saturday mornings would not be the same without coffee from Beaner’s, a Hmong eggroll or a breakfast brat. There are also some local bakeries that sell wonderful breads, pastries and other baked goods. Last year I tried my first shrimp po-boy and it was fantastic!
We have great entertainment Saturday mornings as well. Michael Murphy is a regular and his Chicago-style blues adds just the right ambience. If you are lucky you can catch my friends Rick and Diane showing off their ballroom dancing skills. There are also demonstrations by many local groups. Last year we had Makaroff Youth Ballet (the only pre-professional ballet studio in the area).
The Appleton Downtown Farm Market is located on College Avenue in Appleton, Wisconsin. The market began on Saturday, June 21st and goes through Saturday, October 25th. The hours are 8:00 am to 12:30 pm.
