LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Little Rock Farmers’ Market celebrated five decades of operations with thriving opening weekends. Market patrons were able to shop with over 60 Arkansas-based vendors at the downtown Little Rock attraction bringing an array of fresh produce and local goods to the city once again. The market will be open to the public every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Labor Day weekend at the River Market pavilions located at 400 President Clinton Ave.
Originally established on Main Street in 1974, the market moved to the newly-completed River Market pavilions in July 1996, Since its founding, the Little Rock Farmers’ Market has been a staple in the community, providing farm-fresh produce, locally prepared cottage foods and handmade arts and crafts. Today, the market is home to a diverse selection of offerings, including fresh produce vendors representing family-owned farms from across the state.
"We are proud to welcome visitors and residents to join us downtown as the city celebrates 50 years of community, fresh produce and local goods at the Little Rock Farmers’ Market,” said Gina Gemberling, president and CEO of the LRCVB. “This milestone is a testament to the market's enduring appeal and its role as a vibrant hub of local culture and commerce."
Over the course of the market's 50 years, the LRCVB has been proud to support its commitment to accessibility for the city’s residents. Many of the participating vendors accept the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which can be purchased at the Farmers’ Market Manager’s Tent. Additionally, the Little Rock Farmers’ Market is a proud participant in the Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) program, matching up to $20 worth of SNAP tokens to use at the market for free.
“Opening weekend was a great success, setting us up for an incredible 50th season of the Little Rock Farmer’ Market,” said Elizabeth Rush, manager of the Little Rock Farmers’ Market. “This is a central Arkansas tradition, offering the perfect atmosphere and location for families to enjoy a Saturday morning. We encourage all Arkansans to make a trip to experience the market with us this summer.”
Guests age 21 and older can experience even more of Little Rock’s vibrant downtown scene by enjoying adult beverages while they peruse market vendors in the expanded River Market Entertainment District (RMED). For a full map of the RMED zone and details click here.
Free parking is available for Little Rock Farmers’ Market patrons in the lot behind the market and in the River Market parking deck at Second Street and River Market Avenue. Handicapped parking options are accessible from the parking lot off Ottenheimer and President Clinton Avenue.
For more information, visit littlerock.com/river-market/farmers-market/.
ABOUT THE LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Little Rock, charged with marketing and selling the city as a meeting, sports and leisure travel destination. The LRCVB also manages the Statehouse Convention Center, Robinson Center, River Market and multiple parking facilities. For more information, visit www.littlerock.com.