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In this marketplace, established back in the 1970s, the heart of Lexington’s agricultural pride beats in rhythm with the city’s pulse. Thanks to visionary leaders like Pam Miller, the Lexington Farmers’ Market (LFM) has evolved into an emblem of sustainable farming. Want to know more about the Lexington farmers market schedule? Check out this guide!
Lexington Farmers Market: One Place for All Things Fresh & Healthy
Come over to the Lexington Farmers Market for ll things fresh and healthy.
Imagine waking up on a bright Saturday morning, a cool breeze gently stirring your senses as you stroll through rows of vibrant, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Welcome you are at the Lexington Farmers Market! The smell of ripe peaches wafts through the air mingling with the tantalizing aroma of home-baked bread.
The story of this marketplace, the Lexington Farmers Market, goes back to the 1970s. Influenced by visionary leader Pam Miller, later Mayor of Lexington, the farming community rallied together. Their purpose? To bring fresh, local produce to the city’s centre. This conviction culminated in an innovative organization being established in 1975. Known today as The Lexington Farmers’ Market (LFM), it serves as a beacon for fresh, accessible agricultural products, sustainability, and local economy stimulation.
It’s a cooperative run by a board of farmer-elected farmers. While partnering with various neighborhoods, community groups, and government bodies, it stands as an autonomous not-for-profit organization. It’s a testament to grassroots leadership and shared responsibility.
Always looking for innovative ways to meet the needs of members and customers, the LFM remains a pioneer in promoting local, healthy produce. The Lexington Farmers’ Market is an official Kentucky Proud Registered Farmers’ Market, a testimony to its quality and dedication.
In this blog we will know about Lexington farmers market hours, Lexington farmers market vendors, and much more.
Lexington Farmers Market Saturday
Waking up on a Saturday morning with the promise of farm-fresh produce is so invigorating. Imagine yourself stepping into Tandy Centennial Park (formerly known as Cheapside Park) or visiting the 5/3 Pavilion. From 8AM-2PM (April-October) or 9AM-1PM (November-March), you’re in for an absolute treat at the Lexington Farmers Market (LFM).
Spring, Summer, Fall: The Bounty of Seasons
Situated right in the heart of Downtown Lexington, Kentucky, close to the historic Lexington Courthouse, this market serves as a pivotal part of LFM and a weekend anchor to Main Street.
From April through October, the market is abuzz with over 50 vendors, hailing from over 30 Kentucky counties. These months, you’ll find a veritable treasure trove of local, farm-fresh products.
The Winter Market: A Festive Cornucopia
Come winter, the market undergoes a magical transformation. The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas are full of that festive spirit.
Even if the pace can be a bit more relaxed in the late winter and early spring months (January to March). The market is open every Saturday during these months too.
During this time, vendors typically have a selection of meat, baked goods, storage crops (like sweet potatoes, potatoes, turnips), early spring vegetables (like kale, radishes), and more (cornmeal, dried herbs) to offer.
Ease of Parking: A Convenient Saturday Outing
Adding to the allure of the Saturday market is the convenience of parking. As of March 2023, the street parking, managed by LexPark, remains free on Saturdays. This ease of access makes the Saturday outing even more attractive and effortless for all those interested in enjoying fresh & local produce.
Lexington Farmers Market Sunday
Gathered near Geno’s Formal Affair & Winchell’s, the Southland Drive Sunday market is a scene filled with festivity and relaxation. From April through October, between the hours of 10AM and 2PM, you’ll find locals and visitors alike, flocking to this vibrant setting. This isn’t just a marketplace, it’s a community event, tied to the local businesses on Southland Drive.
Fresh Produce and Much More: Sustaining the Local Community
What sets this market apart? It’s not just the fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies that you’ll be taking home. Around here, a number of restaurants serve farmers’ market produce. That’s right! Plan your visit around lunch time, and you can enjoy a farm-to-table meal after stocking up on farm fresh produce.
Remember, though, this market has what they call a “hard” start time. Sales do not officially kick-off until 10:00 AM sharp. This is to respect the vendors’ schedules and the policies set by the Board of Directors
Parking? No Problem!
Of course, one doesn’t need to worry about the hassle of parking either. There is parking nearby in the commercial parking lots. So you can take your time.
Lexington Farmers Market Tuesday & Thursday
At the corner of Maxwell Street and South Broadway, near the renowned Rupp Arena this market runs between the hours of 7AM and 4PM (or until sellout), every Tuesday and Thursday. Right from May through November, the market comes to life, showcasing an abundance of local delights. There’s plenty of on-site parking.
Lexington Farmers Market Wednesday
Situated near the Alexandria Drive Post Office, the Wednesday market at Greater Gardenside is a bountiful oasis. Every week, from June 10th through mid-September, between 4PM and 7PM. You’ll find a wealth of farm fresh products awaiting you.
Embrace the midweek break. Dive into the farm-fresh goodness that the Lexington Farmers Market has to offer.
Becoming a Vendor at the Lexington Farmers Market
The journey to joining the Lexington Farmers’ Market (LFM) cooperative commence with showing interest. One’s desire to contribute to and participate in the cooperative organization that happens to primarily operate several farmers markets is the catalyst to this rewarding journey. You can find the Lexington Farmers Market Vendor application here.
Eligibility: Are You a Good Fit?
Every potential vendor needs to meet certain criteria. Notably, you must be 18 years or older and operate a food or agricultural related venture within Kentucky. So if you’ve got your produce all ready for a market, and you’re based in Kentucky, you are off to a great start!
Application: Paperwork Matters
Now comes the fun bit: paperwork. No fretting, though, as this step is quite straightforward. New applicants are required to go through the Member Manual in detail. Follow this up by filling out the New Member Application and Subscription Pledge Form.
Review: Patience is Key
Once your application is in, sit back and let the magic unfold. The Board of Directors puts every application under the lens. They evaluate to see if an applicant’s offerings complement the market’s vibrancy.
Verification: Almost There!
Now, if the board gives your application a nod, you’re in for the last leg. You’ll need to pay your subscription fees, submit necessary permits, and schedule a site inspection. This verification stage ensures that all bases are covered before you’re officially welcomed into the LFM family.
Note that not all product types are eligible. If your product doesn’t have a direct farm impact in Kentucky, it may fail to meet the criteria.
Vendors at the Lexington Farmers Market
The Lexington Farmers Market hosts a number of amazing vendors who put their heart and soul to bring healthy and nutritious food to you. Let’s take a look at some of them.
4th Level Roasters: A Cup of Passion & Resilience
Initiated amidst adversity, 4th Level Roasters has transformed hardship into a beautiful blend of endurance and exquisiteness. Founded by Christian Herman, a two-time cancer warrior, this venture began as a personal hobby and grew into a shared passion.
From roasting beans in winter snow during chemo treatments to eventually selling out their entire stock within three weeks at their first farmer’s market, the journey of 4th Level Roasters is nothing short of inspirational.
Among the Oaks Herb Farm: Sustainable & High-Quality Herbs
Among the Oaks Herb Farm, a women-owned enterprise, beautifully embodies the virtues of sustainability and quality. Located in the tranquil Red River Gorge, Sarah Barney and her team specialize in growing and crafting exceptional culinary and medicinal herbs. They are passionate about enriching your spice rack and tea pot with their fresh, sustainable produce.
Baby Leaf Farm: Urban Farming at Its Best
Picture this, an urban farm in the heart of Lexington, passionately producing microgreens, salad mixes, basil, and even gourmet marshmallows. Baby Leaf Farm, led by Eric Lanham, also offers seasonally available eggs. It’s urban farming brought to your doorstep!
Bellaire Blooms: A Blend of Beauty & Sustainability
Flower enthusiasts, Bellaire Blooms is a delight for your senses! With a commitment to providing the Bluegrass area with decadent, specialty cut flowers, Aaron Stancombe and Anna Bynum are the passionate people behind Bellaire Blooms. They also raise a unique and delicious breed of chicken, making them a unique participant in the local farmers’ market.
Family Farm: Upholding Heirloom Traditions
Finally, let’s not forget Family Farm, helmed by Bill Best. With a legacy of over fifty years in growing and selling heirloom fruits and vegetables, Best Family Farm is a symbol of enduring tradition. Known especially for their heirloom tomatoes and seed-saving initiatives, this family farm adds a unique touch to the Lexington Farmers’ Market.
Conclusion
In a world where local and sustainable living becomes increasingly important, Lexington Farmers Market stands as a testament to this ethos. As you fill your basket with a colourful assortment of fresh, farm-grown treasures, remember you’re also nurturing local businesses, supporting sustainable agriculture, and investing in a healthier lifestyle.
FAQs About Your Lexington Farmers Market
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What time does the Lexington Farmers Market start on Saturday?
The Lexington Farmers Market begins at 8AM from April to October, and at 9AM from November to March.
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Is there a Lexington Farmers Market on Sundays?
Yes, the Lexington Farmers Market operates on Sundays at Southland Drive near Geno’s Formal Affair & Winchell’s, from 10AM to 2PM, April through October.
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What kind of produce can I find at the Lexington Farmers Market during winter?
During winter, you can find a selection of meat, baked goods, storage crops such as sweet potatoes, early spring vegetables like kale, cornmeal, dried herbs, and more.
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What are the steps to become a vendor at the Lexington Farmers Market?
To become a vendor at LFM, one needs to show interest, meet certain criteria, complete the paperwork including a New Member Application, await review by the Board of Directors, and finally undergo verification.
Lexington Farmers Market Address
Lexington Farmers Market operates in various locations depending on the day. On Saturdays, it’s at Tandy Centennial Park or the 5/3 Pavilion. On Sundays, it’s at Geno’s Formal Affair & Winchell’s on Southland Drive. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, it’s near Rupp Arena at the corner of Maxwell Street and South Broadway. On Wednesdays, it’s at the Alexandria Drive Post Office
Check out More Farmers Markets
We have made guides like this one for other farmers markets across the United States. Check out more such guides in our Farmers Market Near Me section!
Hannaan Kirmani
Hi, I'm Hannaan, a freelance writer with a passion for creating engaging content. For the past 5 years, I've had the pleasure of working with amazing clients from countries like the UK, USA, Ireland, and the UAE. I love crafting stories and articles that not only inform but also entertain readers. Each project is a new opportunity to connect with people worldwide, and I'm always excited to bring ideas to life.
