This week, we are proud to celebrate National Farmers Market Week (August 2–8, 2026) alongside our members and thousands of farmers markets across the United States and beyond.
Established in 1999 through a proclamation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Farmers Market Week has grown into an annual celebration led by the Farmers Market Coalition and the farmers market community. What began as a national recognition has evolved into a powerful opportunity to showcase the essential role farmers markets play in building resilient local food systems and thriving communities.
We are especially excited that many of our members are taking part in this year’s celebration, highlighting the incredible work they do every day to connect farmers, food producers, and consumers.
More Than a Marketplace
Farmers markets are much more than places to purchase fresh, locally grown food. They are community gathering spaces where people build relationships, discover local businesses, support family farms, and strengthen regional economies.
Every market reflects the unique needs and character of its community. Whether providing access to fresh produce, creating opportunities for small-scale farmers and food entrepreneurs, or offering educational programs and community events, farmers markets continue to evolve while remaining rooted in their core mission: bringing people together through local food.
Celebrating Our Roots While Looking Ahead
For thousands of years, markets have connected communities through food, culture, and commerce. Today, farmers markets continue that tradition while adapting to new challenges and opportunities.
They demonstrate remarkable resilience during times of uncertainty, serve as trusted community hubs, and help create more sustainable and equitable food systems. As consumer interest in local food continues to grow, farmers markets are leading the way in shaping healthier, stronger communities.
Farmers Markets Don’t Just Happen
Behind every successful farmers market is a dedicated team of market managers, staff, volunteers, farmers, vendors, and community partners working tirelessly to make each market possible.
Their work extends far beyond market day. They coordinate vendors, engage with local governments, secure funding, develop educational programs, promote food access initiatives, and ensure that markets remain welcoming and accessible spaces for everyone.
National Farmers Market Week is an opportunity to recognize these often-unsung efforts and celebrate the people who make local food systems flourish.
Thank You to Our Members
We are incredibly proud of our members who are participating in National Farmers Market Week this year. Through special events, community activities, educational programs, and everyday market operations, they continue to demonstrate the positive impact farmers markets have on the communities they serve.
Their dedication helps create spaces where farmers and consumers connect directly, local businesses thrive, and neighborhoods come together around fresh, locally produced food.
As we celebrate National Farmers Market Week, we encourage everyone to visit a local farmers market, meet the people behind their food, support local producers, and experience firsthand the vibrant community that farmers markets create.
Together, we celebrate not only this week, but the people and partnerships that make farmers markets an essential part of our future.
