Seven Farmers Markets Ready to Go

Farm markets are returning to the peninsula in May. Photo by Len Villano.

Season opens May 7

Farmers markets, those dependable signs that summer is on its way in Door County, will soon be popping up in all the usual places. 

Surprisingly, almost everyone who was in charge of a market last year said that – even with the changes that were required because of COVID-19 – business was good. Market organizers in Sister Bay, in fact, said it was their best season ever, and all those in charge expect an even better season this year, with conditions as close to normal as possible. Safety precautions – masks, frequent hand washing, sanitizing and social distancing – will still be encouraged. 

You’ll find a market open somewhere in the county every day except Mondays and Thursdays. Here’s the lineup:

• Tuesdays, 9 am – 1 pm, Lakeside Park, 6282 Hwy 57 in Jacksonport

Opens May 18  

This state-licensed market, sponsored by the Jacksonport Area Business Association, is in a lovely location for relaxing or picnicking by Lake Michigan, and there’s a playground for children. The market opened in 2008, and many vendors – all of whom must be Door County residents – have been with it every year. The market follows state rules of 70% farm produce and 30% other items. Every farm vendor who inquires is accepted, but there’s a waiting list for craft vendors. 

• Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm, Settlement Shops, 9106 Hwy 42 in Fish Creek

Opens June 2

Although the market will open June 2 for its 19th season, the annual sale of flowers, vegetable plants, shrubs and small trees will take place May 29. It’s a small market with produce from Sully’s and others, plus homemade crafts. Special items include fresh whitefish from Henriksen Fisheries and wonderful sourdough bread from Cultured. Seven quaint shops surround the market, and there’s shade to sit in while enjoying music and food to go.

• Fridays, 9 am – 1 pm, Harbor View Park, 7809 Hwy 42 in Egg Harbor

Opens May 21

Now in its fifth year, this smaller market, with 12-15 vendors, offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, some unusual crafts and a maple syrup producer who sells not only syrup, but also maple popcorn and maple pecans. Vendors and shoppers love the beautiful view of Green Bay just down the hill.

• Every other Friday, 4-8 pm, behind Mink River Basin, 12010 Hwy 42 in Ellison Bay

Opens May 7  

Vendors at Northern Door’s first night market will offer produce, flowers, jewelry, baked goods, candles, eggs, bread and canned goods.

• Saturdays, 9 am – 1 pm, Corner of the Past, 10310 Fieldcrest Road in Sister Bay

Opens June 26

The Sister Bay Historical Society has sponsored Door County’s oldest market for 20 years, and as befits the sponsor, the market is located around historic farm buildings. The pandemic meant that there were only vendors of produce and some homemade food in 2020, but a wide variety of other vendors, including those with crafts, are expected to return this summer. There are also hopes that live music will return to the Koessl barn.

• Saturdays, 8:30 am – 12 pm, Market Square, 421 Michigan St. in Sturgeon Bay

Opens June 5

This state-licensed farmers market is Door County’s largest, with about 70 vendors. At least 50% of the items sold must be homegrown or handmade, and all must be produced within 75 miles of Sturgeon Bay. It’s hoped that regulations will permit the sale of all kinds of food. Seating will be available. 

• Sundays, 9 am – 1 pm, Town Hall green space, 2392 Cty F in Baileys Harbor

Opens May 16

This market, in operation for 10-plus years, hosts a wide variety of craft vendors, local farmers and commercial growers. Some local businesses will also have booths this year, and food will be available. There are shady places to sit, a playground for children and a view of Lake Michigan. A winter market held inside the town hall will be open one Sunday in November, three Sundays in December and one Sunday per month January – April, with lots of crafts and some fresh produce.