By Sthefanie Padilla | Photo by Holly Leitner
Fresh produce is at its peak in the Upper Midwest right now, which makes it an ideal time to visit one of the area’s many farmers markets. These outdoor markets provide a fun glimpse into the local growers, bakers and makers who sell their offerings directly to attendees. The markets also bring a welcoming sense of community to everyone who visits.
The Lake Geneva area offers a variety of farmers market options: weekends and weekdays, mornings and afternoons. A few of our favorite things to do? Stop for a freshly baked treat at the Gluten-Free Lake Life stand or look for stained-glass ornaments at Designs by J Martin. Or check out the nearby stands where you can get unique crochet items like bucket hats, cardigans or tote bags. A personal favorite is Pedro’s Food Stand for a refreshing fruit cocktail that will cool you down after a long morning of shopping!
Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll probably find it (and so much more!) at one of these area farmers markets.
Burlington Farmers Market
Where: Wehmhoff Square, 355 N. Pine St., Burlington
When: Thursdays, 3-7 p.m. (3-6 p.m. in October)
Season: May 2 to Oct. 31
A mix of local crafts, fresh produce and seasonal goods. This market features live music and activities for kids, including face painting and craft stations, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
Parking: Free street parking nearby
Website: Burlington Farmers Market
East Troy Farmers Market
Where: Honey Creek Collective, N8030 Townline Rd., East Troy
When: Fridays, 3-6 p.m.
Season: June 7 to Oct. 4
Featuring an array of locally grown produce, handcrafted goods and other products from small-scale, independent vendors, this farmers market focuses on offering fresh, high-quality goods that are grown or produced in East Troy or the surrounding area.
Parking: Free parking available
Website: East Troy Farmers Market
Elkhorn Farmers Market
Where: Veterans Park, 100 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn
When: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Season: May 25 to Aug. 31
Elkhorn’s historic downtown square is the setting for this farmers market, appropriately named Saturdays on the Square. Here, you’ll find vendors offering baked goods, handmade crafts and a variety of farm-grown produce. If you’re looking for brunch, check out the assembled food trucks.
Parking: Free parking around the square
Website: Elkhorn Farmers Market
Geneva Outdoor Market
Where: Lake Geneva House of Music, N3241 Cty Rd. H, Lake Geneva
When: Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Season: May 5 to Oct. 27
Browse through fresh eggs, artisanal cheeses and tasty treats while enjoying live music and local crafts. On Sept. 15, don’t miss Taco Fest, a celebration of all things taco at the farmers market.
Parking: Free on-site parking
Website: Geneva Outdoor Market
Genoa City Farmers Market
Where: Veterans Park, 700 Fellows Rd., Genoa City
When: Fridays, 3-7 p.m.
Season: May 24 to Sept. 27
Listen to live music from local favorites Gebel Girls (their lead singer is a veteran of “The Voice”!) and browse offerings like gourmet popcorn, fresh-cut flowers, and, starting Aug. 30, fresh apples from Hafs Road Orchard. The market also hosts local artists and food trucks.
Parking: Free parking available
Website: Genoa City Farmers Market
Lake Geneva Farmers Market
Where: Horticultural Hall, 330 Broad St., Lake Geneva
When: Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Season: May through Oct. 31
With over 30 vendors, this market is known for its fresh vegetables, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, flowers and so much more. Do not miss the Yaya’s Skordalia from local chef Mike Anagnose or the dill pickles from Tommy D’s stand — they are local favorites! Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations and join in on the yoga sessions led by Lake Geneva Yoga.
Parking: Metered parking at $2 per hour
Website: Lake Geneva Farmers Market
Market at Tower Park (Delavan)
Where: Tower Park, 107 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan
When: Thursdays, 3-7 p.m.
Season: June 6 to Sept. 19
Themed events like family fun nights and pet adoption days are regular features at this farmers market in historic, downtown Delavan. This market is a great place to shop for home-grown veggies and flowers, as well as hand-crafted items.
Parking: Free parking available around the park
Website: Market at Tower Park
Pearce’s Farm Stand
Where: W5740 N. Walworth Rd., Walworth
When: Daily, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Season: Mid-July through Oct. 31 (concession stand: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays)
Pearce’s is renowned for its sweet corn and its wide selection of pumpkins, gourds and fall decorations. But don’t miss their other specialties, like homemade beer cheese dip, rhubarb bread or local honey. They also offer a variety of rotating, fresh vegetables. Kids will love the corn maze and haybale jumping available on site.
Parking: Free on-site parking available
Website: Pearce’s Farm Stand
Whitewater City Market
Where: Cravath Lakefront Park, 341 S. Fremont St., Whitewater
When: Tuesdays, 4-7 p.m. (4-6 pm from Sept. 22 to Oct. 29)
Season: May 7 to Oct. 29
This market has temporarily moved to a location on Cravath Lake to accommodate construction in downtown Whitewater. Enjoy vendors who provide a selection of meats, cheeses and artisanal bakery items. Listen to live music in the Frawley Amphitheater, and participate in lakeside yoga sessions.
Parking: Free parking is available
Website: Whitewater City Market
Williams Bay Farmers Market
Where: Edgewater Park, E. Geneva St., Williams Bay
When: Fridays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Season: May 24 to Aug. 30
Enjoy local produce, baked goods and distinctive handmade jewelry. This lakeside market also offers the opportunity to purchase local artwork, including drawings, paintings and prints, and there’s even a petting zoo on special dates!
Parking: Free parking is available.
Website: Williams Bay Farmers Market
