Uptown Minneapolis To Debut New Farmers Market

‘Tis the season for fresh produce, and the Twin Cities has several popular farmers markets where you can get your fruit and veggie fix—and starting this summer, a new addition will make its way onto the lineup.

Launching June 12, the Uptown Farmers Market will run on Thursdays (through Sept. 25) from 4-8 p.m. along Lake Street and the Girard Avenue Plaza in South Minneapolis’ Uptown neighborhood. The goal? Bring people from across the community together to shop small, supporting local farmers and Uptown’s small businesses.

A collaborative effort between community members, small business owners, and eight neighborhood associations, planning for the new market kicked off in 2023 after the East Isles Neighborhood Association paused its farmers market. A few pop-up markets were held in its place, but the community response indicated Uptown’s need for a larger, more central event.

Photo by Deb Van De Weghe

“This has been a labor of love,” says Dan Sutton, the market’s committee chair, in a statement. “Yes, it’s been like a second job, but the need is so clear and the support so enthusiastic. We’re building something special for Uptown—and we’re just getting started.”

According to the market’s website, the mission is to “help nourish a vibrant, healthy community by bringing fresh local produce to Uptown, along with artisan baked goods, ready-to-love meals, live music, and a whole lot more.” In other words, bringing “fresh eats, live beats, and good vibes,” to the neighborhood.

“Food has a powerful way of bringing people together,” says Market Manager Julia Chamberland in a statement. “This market will not only support our local producers in building a strong food and agricultural system, but also channel the power of food to build community in Uptown… our goal is to create experiences that bring joy, connection, and momentum back to Uptown.”

Photo by Deb Van De Weghe

On the market’s opening day, the first 500 guests will receive a free market tote with promotional goodies from local businesses. To learn more, visit uptownmarket.org.