Finding a Site

The first challenge for most markets is finding a site. Once a site is secured, attracting farmers requires outreach to them. They will want to understand the market’s location and its demographics, market stall and membership fees, day and time of operation and the marketing plan.

Open-air markets are like theater, magically transforming a portion of the community into a harvest celebration. Creating these temporary “stages” can entail labor-intense challenges to assure that the markets are safe and attractive.

Site Considerations:

• Safe and convenient pedestrian access

• Adjoins local streets

• Moderate traffic volumes

• Consistently available for the market throughout the season

• Multiple entry/exit points into site for farm vehicles

• Convenient parking and other retail activity

• ATM access

• Near commercial district

• Easy access/view from arterial streets

• Level and durable surface

• Good drainage – no standing water

• Accessible to water and electric, if possible

• On-site storage

• Public restrooms or space for portable restrooms

• Bike Racks

• Gray Water Disposal

• Amenities for the public such as shade, landscaping, open-air pavilions, stage, benches, and café tables