Check out this list of markets in the Des Moines / Waukee area. Many offer much more than just fresh produce, but entertainment, baked goods and flowers!
TUESDAYS
Beaverdale Farmers Market
When: Tuesdays, 4:00 – 7:30 p.m., June 6 – September 12
Where: 4100-4200 Urbandale Ave. (between Beaver Ave. & 42nd St.)
About: Features vendors, entertainment, hand-crafted items and prepared meals.
Johnston Farmers’ Market
When: Tuesdays, 3:30-6:30 p.m., May – Oct. 6
Where: Johnston City Hall parking lot, 6221 Merle Hay Road, Johnston
About: 50+ vendors featuring produce, flowers, baked goods and crafts, along with music.
WEDNESDAYS
Waukee Farmers’ Market
When: Wednesdays, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., June 1 – End of September
Where: Triangle Park on 6th Street and Ashworth Drive, Waukee
About: 27 weekly vendors and live music. There is also an assortment of dinner options including BBQ, Jamaican and Cajun food as well as burgers and hot dogs.
Grimes Farmers’ Market
When: Wednesdays, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., May 17 – August 30
Where: Grimes Public Library (Waterworks Park at 200 N. James Street) Parking Lot Area along the north side
About: 15 vendors and music, plus fun for the kids including a magician and face painting. Also, Italian ice for dessert.
THURSDAYS
Valley Junction Farmers’ Market
When: Thursdays 4:00 – 8:30 p.m., May – September
Where: 5th Street, Valley Junction, West Des Moines
About: The second-largest market in the metro area with 100 vendors. Offerings range from fresh produce to hand-crafted items and prepared food to enjoy at the market.
SATURDAYS
Ankeny Farmers’ Market
When: Saturdays, 8:00 a.m.- NOON, May 20 – September 30
Where: Ankeny Market & Pavilion Park, 715 W 1st Street in Uptown Ankeny
About: 35 vendors each week, music, a balloon artist, kids’ activities, and two or three options for breakfast or lunch.
Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market
Where: Court Avenue District, Des Moines
When: Saturdays, 7:00 a.m. – NOON, May 6 – October 28
About: The largest market in the metro-area, with 275 vendors providing an assortment of fresh produce, art, music and food vendors.