We have lived in Kansas City for almost 9 years, and I have only been to one of our local farmers’ markets a total of three times. When I see the pictures of people going, I envy their incredible finds, and I promise myself “next weekend.” But somehow, it just kept finding its way away from my calendar. But all of that changed last weekend with a visit to the Overland Park Farmers’ Market. I was completely blown away by my experience, and I wanted to share everything you need to know to plan your next visit.
When the team at Overland Park Farmers’ Market invited me to come check out their Saturday market, I jumped at the chance. They bill themselves as being very family friendly, so Chad and I decided to make a morning of it with our little crew.
Most people assume that farmers’ markets are only a summer event, but that is not the case! The Overland Park Farmers’ Market is open 51 calendar days! Their hours are Wednesdays (through September 25) from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and Saturdays (through December 7) from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and changing to 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM in October and beyond. This makes total sense, because produce is seasonal, so you can expect to find the freshest options every week.
The market is located in Downtown Overland Park at 7950 Marty St, Overland Park, KS 66204. Upon arrival, there is plenty of parking, either on the street or in nearby lots. You will want to look for signs that state parking is reserved for certain businesses to ensure you have a car when you return.
As soon as you can see the market, you know you’re in for a fun morning. Instantly, you can see the bright colors of the vendors, signage, and produce; you can smell the yummy treats being cooked and brewed; and you can hear the music from an on-site musician.
When you arrive at the market, you can stop by the Information booth to get more information or answer any of your questions, or you can jump right in. First stop should be to grab a coffee from Wild Way or a kombucha from TeaBiotics. If you haven’t eaten yet, grab a pastry from Ibis Bakery. Once you have your caffeine fix and a little something in your belly, you’re ready to explore.
Overland Park Farmers’ Market has a motto of “Eat a Rainbow Everyday,” and that will never be a problem. There are over 85 vendors, all located within 125 miles of the Overland Park Farmers’ Market. You can expect to find fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, honey, pasta, oils, nuts, salsa, pickles, jams/jellies, plants/flowers, local businesses, and so much more! The vendors accept cash, credit/debit, EBT, and SFMNP. They have a commitment to sustainability and encourage no plastic bags and recyclable or compostable serve ware, so bring your own bags and bottles.
A few of our favorites were the cookies from Surprise Foods and Yummylicious, the Pink Mushrooms from Dragonfly Mushroom, the pickles from Pat & Rachel’s Gardens, the Zestar Apples from Sunflower Orchards, the Sourdough from Farm to Market Bread Co, the Asian Pears, the stunning flowers, and let’s not forget the Mango Flower from Just Enough Heat–both delicious and totally Gramable.
If you’re starting to work up an appetite, you’re in luck, because there are several local restaurants and food trucks on site cooking up breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. We grabbed lunch from The Wiener Wagon, and it was delicious. (Yes, they have a veggie option too!)
In addition to the vendors, they offer live music, with more than 50 different performers, and two acts per day. They also host special events, theme days, kids activities, and educational curriculum. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on their events.
The Overland Park Farmers’ Market was named Best Farmers’ Market in Kansas, and I can certainly see why. This market started in 1982, and has been going strong ever since. They have made over $200,000 in upgrades over 2018 and 2019, and there is a $5.5 million renovation coming in 2023!
Visits to the Overland Park Farmers’ Market will certainly be in our monthly rotation from here on out. We all had fun, and we’ve really enjoyed having all of this fresh local produce in our house.
What are you doing this weekend? Well, now you know…
XOXO,
Molly B.
