Every Saturday from May through October, Washington Park in Quincy comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Farmers Market. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., visitors can explore a diverse selection of local goods, fresh produce, and handcrafted items while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of one of the city’s most cherished community events.
The Quincy Farmers Market has been a staple in the community since 1982, providing a space for local farmers, bakers, and artisans to showcase their goods. What sets this market apart from others in the region is its commitment to accessibility and community support. Through grant funding, the market is able to match Senior/WIC coupons and LINK/EBT cards throughout the season, making fresh, locally sourced food more accessible to families in need.
The market’s unique location in Washington Park provides a beautiful, shaded setting, surrounded by coffee shops and breakfast spots that enhance the weekend experience. Additionally, The District, which oversees the market, offers a free vendor spot each week to highlight a local nonprofit organization from Adams County, increasing awareness and strengthening community connections.
Depending on the time of year, the Quincy Farmers Market features between 15 to 30 vendors offering various products, including fresh produce, meats, baked goods, floral arrangements, artisan crafts, and more. A core group of eight to ten vendors, primarily farmers, participate consistently every week, while other vendors rotate throughout the season. This variety ensures that shoppers always have something new to discover while supporting both established and emerging small businesses.
The market also offers a Farmers Market Coin program to accommodate shoppers who may not carry cash. Visitors can purchase FM coins at The District’s tent and use them at any vendor that only accepts cash, making transactions more convenient for everyone.
The Farmers Market serves as more than just a place to shop—it plays a vital role in supporting local farmers and small businesses. Programs like Link Up Illinois provide additional assistance to lower-income families by matching LINK card benefits up to $25 per day, ensuring that fresh, nutritious food is accessible to all. This matching program typically begins in June and runs until funding is exhausted.
The market is also designed with accessibility in mind, making it easy for families with strollers, individuals with mobility challenges, and those using wheelchairs to navigate the area comfortably. Special events such as live music performances and nonprofit showcases add to the welcoming environment, and while children’s activities were previously held on the first Saturday of each month, sponsorship for these programs is still pending for the current season.
Each vendor at the market has different payment policies, but most accept both cash and card, with many also offering Venmo as an option. Visitors are encouraged to bring both card and cash to ensure they can shop without limitations.
The Quincy Farmers Market thrives because of the dedication of its vendors, shoppers, and volunteers. Community members who want to get involved can support the market by volunteering to assist the market manager during the season. Whether you’re looking to give back to the community or fulfill volunteer hour requirements, this is a great way to contribute. Interested individuals can reach out via email at farmersmarket@thedistrictquincy.com for more information.
With its deep-rooted history, commitment to accessibility, and focus on supporting local businesses, the Quincy Farmers Market remains a beloved Saturday tradition. It doesn’t matter if you’re a longtime visitor or a first-time shopper; plan to stop by Washington Park and experience all this vibrant market has to offer!
Submitted by Brandy Owens