Everyone In Nebraska Must Visit This Epic Farmers Market At Least Once
By Delana Lefevers|Published May 14, 2017
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
Nebraska is an agricultural state, so it stands to reason that we have terrific farmers markets all throughout the state. There’s one market with a rich history dating back to the turn of the 20th century; the Omaha Farmers Market in the Old Market has grown and grown into epic proportions over the years.
The original Omaha farmers market began in the early 20th century in the Old Market, which had itself begun its existence as the city's commerce center.
Vendors offered fresh produce and other goods at the Omaha "City Market" until 1964. The market was inactive for 30 years until its revival in 1994, when it was brought back at the corner of 11th and Jackson.
Vendors began setting up tables, tents, and truck beds in a parking lot. They brought fresh produce, flowers and plants, baked goods, and crafts. The market was small at first, but over the ensuing decades it has blown up into a huge event.
Most of the vendors at the market are happy to stop and chat for a while about their products and their farms or businesses. Many even offer free samples!
Farm fresh eggs, homemade salsa, hearty breads, fresh-baked sweet treats, farm-raised local honey, arts and crafts, and plant seedlings are just some of the treasures you'll find in addition to fresh produce.
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Other Nebraska businesses, like local wineries, cheese makers, and dog treat bakeries also come out to offer samples and sales of their delicious wares. The market long ago outgrew the little parking lot and now stretches out down 11th Street.
While lots of neighborhoods hold their own farmers markets, the official Omaha Farmers market has expanded to include locations at Aksarben Village (67th and Center, Sundays from 9 am - 1 pm) and the Charles Drew Health Center (2915 Grant St, Wednesdays beginning July 5 from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm).
The market which started a hundred years ago is going stronger than ever, and now it’s a popular weekend destination for Omahans. Visit the market weekly on Saturday mornings from 8 am – 12:30 pm at the corner of 11th and Jackson Streets. Find more information here. Leashed, well behaved dogs are welcome at the market.
For a great roadside farm market on the other side of the state, check out this article.
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