When you think of Madison, it’s hard not to think of the Dane County Farmers’ Market. It’s that iconic.
Every Saturday from April to November, over 100 Wisconsin vendors gather on Capitol Square to participate in the country’s largest producer-only farmers’ market.
You’ll find fresh produce, flowers, meats, cheeses, and all kinds of specialty products. Everything you see for sale was grown, raised, and produced in Wisconsin by the friendly person standing in front of you.
It’s a Madison summer staple. A must-do. A Wisconsin tradition going back decades. And we’ve got the full scoop on how to make the most of your Saturday on the Square.
Pro Tip - Stay with us on Friday night, and walk one block to the market on Saturday morning! Check out our Farmers’ Market Package for details.
About the Dane County Farmers’ Market
The Dane County Farmers’ Market is the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country. That means every item you see at the market was produced by the members behind the tables. What an amazing opportunity to get to know the people who grow and raise your food!
The market was founded in 1972 with just five farmer vendors. Over the years it has grown to hundreds of vendors, multiple days of the week, and stretches nearly all year long.
2019 Dane County Farmers’ Market Hours & Dates
For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market website.
Saturday on the Square
Saturdays, April 13 - November 16, 2019
6:15 AM - 1:45 PM
Capitol Square
Art Fair Market
July 13, 2019
6:15 AM - 1:45 PM
Breese Stevens Field
Wednesday Market
Wednesdays, April 17 - November 6, 2019
8:30 AM - 1:45 PM
200 Block Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Holiday Market
Saturdays, November 23 - December 21, 2019 (except November 30)
7:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center
Late Winter Market
Saturdays, January 5 - April 6, 2019
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Madison Senior Center
Dane County Farmers’ Market Vendors
There are approximately 275 vendors involved in the Farmers’ Market throughout the year.
Over 150 members attend every Saturday on the Square.
In addition to food vendors, you’ll also find non-profits, political organizations, arts & crafts vendors, and street musicians. It all makes for a really fun atmosphere!
View the full list of Dane County Farmers’ Market vendors.
Dane County Farmers' Market Local Favorites
Stella’s Bakery - Stella’s Hot & Spicy Cheese Bread is a well known market must-have. As they say, “tear it and share it” as you make your way around Capitol Square.
Cheese Curds - There’s no better place to get genuine Wisconsin cheese curds! Farmer John’s is one of our favorites, but as long as they’re squeaky fresh you can’t go wrong!
Morel Mushrooms - Some call morel mushrooms the “Wisconsin truffle.” They’re kind of a big deal in the food world because they’re hard to find and a little on the pricey side. Even if you don’t typically like mushrooms, you just might fall in love with morels. Find a morel mushroom vendor here.
Dane County Farmers' Market Insider Tips
Go early. The later you go, the more crowded it will be. So get to the market early to enjoy a leisurely stroll before more people arrive.
Check the Dane County Farmers’ Market blog for great recipe ideas before you go! They post a recipe of the week to inspire your shopping list.
Bring your own shopping bag. You’ll be surprised how quickly it fills up! Make sure you have a place to store all your treasured goodies.
Go with the flow. When you arrive at the market, you’ll see that the flow of foot traffic heads in one direction around the square. Follow the crowd and walk with the vendors on your right hand side. Keep in mind that the most congested area is usually the top of State Street.
Brunch spots will be packed, so be prepared. You can try to make a reservation in advance, or just leave yourself enough time to endure a wait. Our restaurant, CIRC, is open for breakfast as well as our on-site Starbucks.
Book Our Farmers’ Market Special Package
Ready to enjoy the Dane County Farmers’ Market? Make a weekend of it! Stay at The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor's Club. Our Farmers’ Market Package includes:
- One-night accommodations for two on Friday night
- Two insulated Madison Concourse Hotel shopping bags
- Two beverages from our on-site Starbucks, valued up to $5 each
- $20 dining credit to use at our restaurant CIRC, The Bar, or room service
Get everything you need for a perfect morning on the Square! Learn more.