The Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market, officially known as Green City Market, is a vibrant community hub near the zoo. Operating year-round, it offers fresh, local produce and artisanal goods from over 50 Midwest vendors. The market runs Wednesdays and Saturdays from May to October at 1817 N. Clark St., Chicago. It features educational programs, seasonal tastings, and workshops, making it a destination for food enthusiasts and families alike.
What Are the Hours and Location of the Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market?
The Green City Market, often referred to as the Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market, operates on a seasonal schedule:
- Summer Season (May to October):
- Days: Wednesdays and Saturdays
- Hours: 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
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Location: Outdoors at 1817 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614
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Winter Season (November to April):
- Days: Saturdays only
- Location: Indoors at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
This schedule ensures that visitors can enjoy the market’s offerings throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.
Who Are the Vendors at the Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market?
The Green City Market boasts an impressive array of over 50 local, sustainable farmers and food producers from the Midwest. These vendors offer a diverse range of products, including:
- Fresh, seasonal produce
- Locally-raised meats
- Artisanal cheeses and dairy products
- Freshly baked goods
- Specialty food items
Some notable vendors you might encounter include:
- Mick Klug Farm – Known for their stone fruits and berries
- Nichols Farm & Orchard – Offering a wide variety of heirloom vegetables
- Nordic Creamery – Specializing in small-batch butter and cheeses
- Bennison’s Bakery – Providing artisanal breads and pastries
- Ellis Family Farms – Offering organic fruits and vegetables
What Special Events and Activities Are Scheduled at the Market?
The Green City Market is not just a place to shop; it’s a community hub that offers a variety of engaging events and activities:
- Chef Demonstrations:
- Local chefs showcase seasonal recipes using market ingredients
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Held every Saturday during market hours
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Club Sprouts:
- A free children’s program promoting healthy eating
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Activities include taste tests, scavenger hunts, and hands-on learning
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Edible Education:
- Workshops on topics like composting, beekeeping, and urban gardening
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Typically held monthly during market hours
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Seasonal Celebrations:
- Special events marking the changing seasons and harvests
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Examples include Tomato Fest in August and Apple Fest in October
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Market Tours:
- Guided walks through the market, introducing visitors to vendors and seasonal produce
- Available for groups upon request
What Range of Activities Can Visitors Enjoy at the Market?
The Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors:
- Shopping for Fresh Produce:
- Browse stalls filled with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs
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Engage with farmers to learn about growing practices and recipe ideas
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Artisanal Food Tasting:
- Sample locally-made cheeses, baked goods, and specialty items
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Discover new flavors and support small-scale producers
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Educational Workshops:
- Participate in hands-on learning experiences
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Topics range from cooking techniques to sustainable living practices
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Community Engagement:
- Meet fellow food enthusiasts and local residents
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Participate in community-building activities and discussions
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Seasonal Celebrations:
- Join in festive events that mark the changing seasons
- Enjoy special tastings, demonstrations, and activities
How Does the Market Change with the Seasons?
The Green City Market adapts to the changing seasons, offering a unique experience throughout the year:
| Season | Location | Days | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (May) | Outdoor | Wed & Sat | Early crops like asparagus and rhubarb |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Outdoor | Wed & Sat | Peak produce season, abundant variety |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | Outdoor | Wed & Sat | Harvest celebrations, apples, and squash |
| Winter (Nov-Apr) | Indoor | Sat only | Root vegetables, preserves, indoor activities |
Each season brings its own charm:
- Spring: The market comes alive with early crops and the excitement of a new growing season.
- Summer: Peak produce season offers the widest variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Fall: Harvest celebrations and autumn crops take center stage.
- Winter: The market moves indoors, focusing on hearty vegetables, preserves, and cozy activities.
What Are the Rules and Amenities at the Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market?
To ensure a pleasant experience for all, the market has established certain rules and provides various amenities:
Rules:
- The market operates rain or shine
- Pets are welcome but must be leashed
- Bring your own reusable bags to reduce plastic waste
- Smoking is prohibited within the market area
Amenities:
- Transportation:
- Several CTA bus routes stop near the market
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Nearby train stops for convenient access
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Parking:
- Discounted parking available at Chicago Historical Museum lot
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$14 for two hours with validation
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Accessibility:
- The market is wheelchair and stroller accessible
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Volunteers available to assist shoppers with disabilities
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SNAP Benefits:
- The market welcomes and triple matches Link (SNAP or EBT) benefits up to $25
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This program makes fresh, local food more accessible to all community members
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Information Booth:
- Located centrally in the market
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Provides maps, vendor information, and answers to visitor questions
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Restrooms:
- Public restrooms available nearby in Lincoln Park
By offering these amenities and adhering to community-friendly rules, the Green City Market ensures that the Lincoln Park Zoo Farmers Market remains a welcoming and accessible destination for all visitors.
References:
1. [https://www.choosechicago.com/listing/green-city-market/]
2. [https://www.greencitymarket.org/market/details/lincoln]
3. [http://www.theorganicgardener.net/green-city-market/]