Buyers flock to the Brookings Farmers Market every Saturday morning from May through October to experience the tastes and aromas of the community. Vendors greet them with a wide variety of fresh vegetables, meats, baked goods, coffee, honey and more. The markets selection of locally produced goods also includes homemade jewelry, art, dog accessories, leather goods and other handcrafted items. Products vary depending on the season, so there’s always something new.
“We are a grower’s market,” said Kirsten Gjesdal, executive director of Downtown Brookings. “Anyone selling items has to be involved in the growing, making or baking of products.”
Throughout the season, the Brookings Farmers Market also puts on a variety of events, including yard games and live music. In the summer, Prairie Souls Studio hosts free yoga for all ages to enjoy.
On some weekends, upwards of 800 people visit the market. No matter the weather, Brookings residents and visitors alike enjoy getting to interact with the vendors.
“I truly think what brings people back is the sense of community,” said Gjesdal.
The Brookings Farmers Market is open from 9 am to noon on Saturdays at 300 6th Ave., between the Brookings Public Library and the Brookings County Courthouse.
The 2024 Brookings Farmers Market opens May 4 and closes for the season October 26. Learn more at BrookingsFarmersMarket.com.
*This story has been written in collaboration with South Dakota State University‘s Public Relations class for our 2024 Visitor Guide. Read the guide here.*
