It is something many of them have been doing for years. What’s different this summer is that the farmer’s market is no longer at Hayymarket Square after more than 100 years at the West Third Street park.
“I like the new location because there is a lot of traffic,” said Kristinia Schraiber of Glow Low Fallon Skincare, Dixon. “I like the trees and nature in the park.”
Shoppers walk shade-covered sidewalks, past vendors selling everything from produce to crafts. A solo musician sings old favorites while vendors try to entice passersby to stop and see what they have to offer.
“We moved the market to John Dixon Park because we needed more room,” said Britney Ellison, Dixon Park District’s farmers’ market manager. “When we were at Haymarket Square, we had to turn away 20 vendors.”
The change is part of a two-year pilot program, according to Ellison. Since the feedback from vendors and the neighborhood around John Dixon Park has been so positive, the change is likely to be permanent.
“I actually liked the old place (Haymarket Square) better because there was more parking,” said Chuck Gaumer of Gaumer Farms, which had tomatoes grown in a greenhouse for sale. “I’m doing about the same amount of business as last year.”
Jayden Stewart of Back Roads Eats said she likes how the larger number of vendors is attracting customers.
“It’s a beautiful location because you are surrounded by nature,” Stewart said.
The park fills an entire city block and has three spots with playground equipment. The park district also brings in a bouncy house for the kids.
“We’ve set it up so people can spend time at the market,” Ellison said. “Since people come for the produce, we have our produce vendors around the edge of the park.”
First-time vendor Christine Martinez of C.C. Greens and Décor says it is the atmosphere she likes.
“It’s really nice to come to a bigger community,” said Martinez, who has sold her plants at the Amboy farmer’s market. “The first two hours of the day have been good.”
For Jenna Ohda of Normandy Natives, Walnut, it is the park’s vibes that make it work.
“Everyone is so laid back,” said Ohda, while she watered her plants.
Farmer’s Markets in the Sauk Valley:
Twin Cities Farmer’s Market, 106 Ave. A, Sterling, Ill, on Saturdays from 8:00 am-12:00 pm.
Polo Farmer’s Market, 212 S. Division Ave., Polo, Ill, on Thursdays from 3:00 pm-6:00 pm, and Saturdays from 8:00 am-1:00 pm.
Morrison Farmer’s Market, 204 E. Lincoln Rd., Morrison, Ill, on Saturdays from 8:00 am-11:00 am rain or shine.
Mount Carroll Farmer’s Market, E. Market St., Mount Carroll, Ill, on Saturdays from 8:00 am-12:00 pm.
