The Leelanau Farmer’s Market Association will kick off its 26th year Saturday at North Park in Suttons Bay.
Farmers’ markets are a winwin for Leelanau County — as they not only provide a way for people to access fresh, quality produce and other products — they also build community between consumers and farmers and contribute to the economic viability of farming in the region.
Accomplishments since the formation of the Leelanau Farmers Markets in 2000:
• Operated farmers markets in seven difference communities: Leland, Suttons Bay, Empire, Glen Arbor, Northport, Lake Leelanau and Cedar.
• Offered a wide variety of products for sale, ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables to baked good, meats, eggs, maple syrup, honey, cut flowers, cheeses, nursery products, prepared foods, wine and craft items.
• Attracted thousands of customers to the markets, generating thousands of dollars in economic activity.
• Increased the viability and visibility of farming for many different farms in the county.
• Was one of the first markets in Michigan to accept Snap food assistance benefits and participate in the Double Food Bucks program.
• Served as a destination for locals, seasonal residents, and transient tourists alike-providing a place for people to connect with each other as well as area farms.
• Supported K-12 educational programming by participating in special one day “indoor farmers markets” inside area schools including Leland, Glen Lake, Northport and Suttons Bay.
All products and produce sold at the markets are made or grown within 60 miles of the market in Leelanau, Grand Traverse and Benzie counties.
All markets run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The remainder of the lineup includes:
• Leland — Immanuel Lutheran Church parking lot, 303 E. Pearl St. with the first day, June 4. The market will run Thursdays through Sept. 3.
• Northport —Located at 105 S. Bay St., across from the marina. First day is Friday, June 5 and will open through Sept. 18.
• Empire — Saturdays beginning June 6, the Empire Farmer’s Market, next to the post office at 10234 Front St., Empire. The last market day is set for Aug. 29.
• Glen Arbor — The market takes place behind the Glen Arbor Township Hall, 6394 W. Western Ave., Glen Arbor. First date: Tuesday, June 9 and runs through Sept. 15.
