The beloved Oak Park Farmers’ Market is officially underway, marking its 50th anniversary season in 2025. A true spring-to-fall tradition, the Market brings together local farmers, artisan vendors, and the Oak Park community every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., now through October 25, at 460 Lake Street, just west of Ridgeland Avenue.

Conveniently located near the Ridgeland Green Line stop, the Market continues to draw shoppers from across the Chicago area who are seeking fresh produce, farm-raised meats, organic eggs, local honey, artisan breads, cut flowers, and more.

Since its first season in 1976, the Oak Park Farmers’ Market has grown into one of the most celebrated farmers markets in the Chicago suburbs. This year’s golden anniversary is filled with new touches and returning favorites, including on-site donut making, live bluegrass music, community bake sales, and special events throughout the summer and fall.

“This market season is an incredible opportunity to reflect on the growth and history of the Oak Park Farmers’ Market,” said Jack Carmody, Market Manager since 2023. “It’s a celebration of our founders, Marge Gockel and Carla Lind, and of everyone who has helped make the Market a local institution for five decades.”

To commemorate this milestone season, 50th Anniversary banners now line Lake Street around the Market. More than two dozen vendors are participating this year, and most accept credit, debit, LINK, and LINK Match coupons—with up to $25 in LINK Match benefits for eligible purchases.

2025 Oak Park Farmers’ Market Events

Visitors can enjoy several free, family-friendly events this season:

• Go Green Days: Celebrated on May 17 and May 25 to highlight sustainability efforts in Oak Park
• Corn Roast: A community favorite since 1982, returns Saturday, August 9
• Pie Bake-Off: A sweet competition happening Saturday, September 6
• Stone Soup: The traditional season finale will be held Saturday, October 25

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A Look Back: The History of the Oak Park Farmers’ Market

1974 – Inspired by the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Carla Lind and Marge Gockel begin planning a similar concept for Oak Park.

1975 – The Village of Oak Park agrees to sponsor the Market and creates a Farmers’ Market Commission.

1976 – The first Market opens on North Boulevard with just one vendor.

1977–1979 – Community bake sales begin; bluegrass music and cheese vendors are added.

1978 – The Market moves to the Pilgrim Congregational Church parking lot, where it remains today. The first donuts are made by church volunteers.

1982 – The first Corn Roast is held.

1983 – The inaugural Stone Soup event closes the season.

1986 – National media coverage brings 7,000 visitors after a grower controversy. Farm inspections begin.

1999 – Longtime manager Nancy Ricketts retires after 20 years of service.

2000 – The Market celebrates its 25th anniversary and is ranked among the top 3 in the Midwest by Country Garden Magazine.

2004–2005 – The first USDA organic and meat vendors are added.

2010 – The 40th anniversary is marked by new legislation signed at the Market by Gov. Pat Quinn to improve access to local food via LINK benefits.

2012 – Go Green Days debut.

2017 – The first Pie Bake-Off adds even more fun to fall.

2020 – During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Market adapts with pre-orders and an alternate layout.

2025 – The 50th Anniversary Season kicks off with new energy and a focus on honoring community legacy.

Why Visit the Oak Park Farmers’ Market?

Whether you’re shopping for farm-fresh groceries, sipping coffee while listening to live music, or enjoying a warm donut on a Saturday morning, the Oak Park Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination near Chicago. It’s a weekly celebration of local food, sustainability, and community spirit.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: 460 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL

🕖 Hours: Saturdays, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 25

🚉 Transit: Near CTA Green Line Ridgeland stop

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