Whoa, this was an incredibly fun experience and I can't wait to return in the spring! The whole market rolls in one direction, and was crowded with people, which made it hard at times to keep up, but you can hop out of line and stop to shop, then hop back into the flow of things. Bring tote bags for all the treasures you will buy, cash/card, and good walking shoes as this is a big market that covers a wide space. The flowers were other-worldly and got me started on a dahlia quest that I have not yet recovered from. Now I want to grow gardens and gardens of just dahlias! Loved the cheese stands, too. And all the beautiful fruits and vegetables. I visited in late August/early September, so I am not sure what it is like in the spring, but definitely by late summer it is HOPPING! Loved it. read more

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You can't beat this farmers market. We live in MKE and make the drive several times during the season. This market gets busy, fast. By 10 am it will be wall to wall people so if a crowd is not your jam--get there early. We like start around 6:30-7am and it's perfect. read more

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This was the biggest farmer's market I have ever seen! There are so many stands with such a wide variety of items, including baked goods, fresh produce, flowers, hot food, dips/spreads, cheese, meats, and so much more! The people working all of the stands were very friendly and helpful, and the whole ambiance of the place is very nice, though it can definitely get a bit crowded. read more

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Has everything you would need for almost any meal. I've seen pasta, bread, meat, dairy, eggs, sauces, produce of course, spices, and so much more. The vendors are always happy and friendly even when just asking questions. Never had a bad experience with any of them. Having it around the read more

Loved all the farm goods and baked goods and cheese selections. Really wished I was local or that I didn't have too far to go. The farmers market goes all the way around the Capitol and the artisan section is down State street. A must visit if you are in the area. read more

A true community of love and support shows up at the Dane County Farmer's Market - wrapping the entire circumference of the State Capitol building - for ease make sure you walk counter clockwise with the crowd - otherwise you'll feel like a fish swimming up sea ;) So much to see, taste, buy, and support! read more

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Love the marked we got the most beautiful flowers. Oh and the cheese omg we go amazing cheese. I can't wait to have it. We got some raspberry jalapeños jam to eat with my cracker and cheese lol. Green tomatoes. And fresh veggies. The bread. I can go on and on. But it is all good definitely a fun time with great products read more

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I woke up early on a Saturday to walk to the gym, and as I was heading over, they were setting up the market around the square, so I came back later. Once it was up and running, it was nice to see. The market features a variety of vendors selling fresh vegetables, meat, honey, pastries, and flowers. There were lots of cute bouquets ranging from $10-25, and I liked seeing people walking around with them. They also have a few food vendors, but the selection was a bit limited, so I ended up grabbing a lemonade from one of the stands. If you walk down one of the side streets (I forget the name), you'll find arts and crafts from local artists. The market runs from around 8:30am to 1:30pm. Here's a fun fact: once a year, they let nudist cyclists roll through the market. I happened to be there this year, and the few kids I saw were so confused by it. Definitely something to keep in mind if you're planning a family trip, check the schedule to avoid surprises. The market does get a bit crowded, and there's live music midday. Shopping-wise, I didn't find much else to grab, but overall, it's a fun stop if you're in the area. read more

A must do in Madison! The earlier you go the better. By 10am it is hard to move through the crowd. There are so many vendors! I really enjoyed the cheese bread everyone insisted that I buy (Stella's). They were very efficient and fast because they are used to the long lines. I'll definitely come back! read more

It's got a lot more sellers than true small farmers, and it is pricier than a lot of farmers' markets. But it is wonderful, and fun, and there is lots of good stuff to eat. Amazing variety. You do need to come hungry, and I think it's the sort of venture that is more fun with someone else, but not a bunch of people because it's always very crowded. I'd say that's the one drawback is that it is uncomfortably crowded. Don't forget to bring your own shopping bags, it's a Green and judgmental crowd. read more

Dane County Farmers' Market - Last day of the season. - Farmers Market Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Great farmers market with a good selection. I just wasn't a big fan if some of the vendors. I feel like some of them were a little pushy. read more

Dane County Farmers' Market - Inside - Farmers Market Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

This is the largest producer only farmers market in US, and is a top attraction of Madison. It runs on Saturday's on warmer months. It runs in a square shape surrounding state Capitol. I parked my car in a near by garage. I dont think street parking was possible. Farmers market was a very refreshing place to visit on a Saturday. Stella's hot and spicy bread seem to be the most popular item. I loved it. It was $13. A bread with cheese and spicy chilli flakes in it. There was a lot of flower, especially sunflower and a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. There were a lot of cheese products. Baked cheese from Brunkow was very popular. I got the cranberry flavored one. They even had a Cheese pizza crust. I got some pepper cheddar cheese curds from Murphy's. That goes well with omlette or simply grilled. Samosa empanada. empanada and arepa were other food items I tried. Beef jerky was another item, I found a lot. I got a habenaro and cheese jerky from Murphs. It was good. Lychee drinkable yogurt from schroeder kase was good. read more

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this was the number one farmers market in the nation!! According to my friend!! and i believe them!! i love how the market is centered around the capitol and the many many options! i tasted so many delicious things!! especially stellas bread... i will actually fly back for that.. read more

A good reason to make the trip to Madison from Chicago (2 hours), the Dane County Farmers'' Market is the largest producers only farmers market in the U.S. The main iteration happens on Saturday mornings in the Capital square (the pedestrian walkway surrounding all four sides of the Wisconsin State Capitol building), and takes about an hour to walk the entire circuit in a cursory fashion. Common items being sold are various produce (beans, tomatoes, strawberries, rhubarb were some that I noticed). a lot of cheeses (especially fresh cheese curds of various flavors....all impossibly squeaky when eaten fresh), and fresh wisconsin honey, some still in their honeycombs. There were two things my daughter wanted to get: fresh cheese curds which she got from multiple vendors; hot'n'spicy cheese bread from Stellas ($15) which is located near the Veteran's museum (no vendor is guaranteed to be in the same spot every market). Cash is always accepted, but quite a few vendors were accepting digital payments as well. Off the square at the nearby State Street, there are other vendors set-up selling hot foods and non-food items like clothing and accessories. Plus all the restaurants and bars in the square are open, so this area is pretty busy throughout the day. For smaller crowds and giant stroller and more opportunity to interact with the vendor, it's good to stop early in the morning (before 7 am if possible). Most people were walking counter-clockwise as they browsed. Like most farmer's markets, you can get a good deal for produce the growers don't want to take back, if you stop in towards the end of the day (around 1 pm). And for everyone's safety, pets are not allowed. Because we were staying at Hyatt House so close by, we stopped by the Market two times (and an additional time for lunch at a nearby restaurant). Unknowingly, we got a front row seat for Madison's stop of the World Naked Bike Ride (June 15, 2024). Funny that we never saw it while we lived here, but the first time we are back, we got to see it. Not sure if I can 'un'see it...glad we didn't go with young kids....definitely would have been some uncomfortable questions being asked. read more

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11/12/22 - Alas another year of outdoor farmers' markets (farket, for short) has come to a close. It's truly a wonderful place. The local colorful produce, your neighbor you never said hi to running your favorite cinnamon roll stand, the street cellists old and young- it's the temporary living room of Madison that springs up each Saturday. A few places to shout out: Chris & Lori's Bakehouse (this year in the corner of main and pinckney) with every variation of scone you can imagine. Cress Spring Bakery - cheddar chive scones to die for! read more

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Friends of ours have been making the trek from Chicago to visit the Dane County Farmers' Market for quite some time, and we were finally able to join this year. It is as great as they touted it to be. All of the tasty foods to eat there and take along make for a fun day. The vibrant colors of floral offerings and fresh food are inspiring, and I had nearly as much fun taking photos as I did nibbling on my purchases. I appreciated the WI cheese selections a ton! So great. As with any farmers' market, prices vary, so my recommendation, if you have the time, is to do a lap with just scouting it out, then make lap two be your purchasing round. That is essentially what we did, and we saved a couple bucks by doing so. Overall, the prices are very attractive. read more

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A huge Farmer's market in the center of Madison surrounding the capital ! There were so many vendors selling fresh flowers, meats, vegetable and cheeses. Many food items to eat., empanadas, cookies, breads, etc. On a June Saturday morning it was packed. There were times we were standing still ! We were fortunate to find street parking , but there are garage options. Definitely worth going to. read more

Dane County Farmers' Market - Farmers Market Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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If you're in Madison during the summer you must check out Dane County Farmers' market! There's just so much there! They've got everything from beautiful flowers to authentic Wisconsin cheese to cool Wisconsin merchandise. They are open on Saturdays only and close around 12 or 1pm. It's located right outside the capitol building and surrounds it entirely. Everyone walks in one direction. Overall rating: 10/10 read more

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First timers to Madison Wisconsin's big farmers market. It took about two hours for us to get the stuff she wanted. The market was mostly farm vendors, one short street full of trinkets and a bunch of street musicians. Arrived at 9am, by 11:00 the crowds were very thick. It's a nice scene. read more

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Each season offers a new experience at this market. Be there early! Highly recommended! read more

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One of the best farmer's market I've ever been to. The location around the capital building can't be beat. The selection is wonderful- great produce, baked goods, bread, and meat. There was an unbelievable scone stand where you must get the white chocolate strawberry scone. read more

Reasons why this is the best farmers market in the country in my opinion: - The most produce of any farmer's market in the country! I've never seen so many peppers, corn, tomatoes, and flowers at a farmers market! - While there's plenty of produce, there are also options for foods to snack on including baked goods, cheesy bread, empanadas, popcorn, cheese curds, etc. - Access to coffee. There are several coffee shops surrounding the area around the capital to choose from. Good options include Collectivo and Ancora. - The location is so charming. It's very enjoyable to circle around the capital building as we check out the farmers market stands. - The capitol building offers an opportunity to cut across to the other side of the market if there's a particular stand you're interested in. It also has convenient public restrooms. - There's so many restaurants around the capitol area to grab lunch after and rest your feet after the farmers market! read more

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Dane County Farmers Market is easily my favorite market and I live 8 hours away in Cincinnati, Ohio. We make two trips a year to Madison. One in the summer, specifically so we can go to the market. It's just a fun experience, walking around the capital. My preschooler loves it, there's tons for her to do. Props to the parents who bring their kiddos in strollers, it's a navigational/logistical nightmare with all of the people who attend the market. Other than being extremely packed full of walking patrons, I enjoy seeing the gorgeous flower booths, vegetables, honey and of course, Stellas Hot Cheesy bread. I tried Stellas for the first time this past summer and haven't stopped craving it. One of my fav things to eat in America. We also enjoy looking at more of the retail vendors down State Street. Some of the art is so cool! We've always been able to find something we want to take home. The art, the live music, local farmers and florists... they're the heart and soul of this county market and absolutely blow we away every time we visit. read more

It really is an amazing farmers market in an amazing setting. Starting sometime before I'd ever awake on a Saturday and ending supposedly at 2pm, but vendors start to pick up post 1pm. I guess it slows down but why not sell a few more things? Idk. I'm sure it is a long day but with that, what's another hour? There's so much food and plants. Lots of shops in states street, as well when you're done with the market. I liked the electric but it player who was there street performing. Sounds nice so I gave him a $5 tip. He earned it. Why not tip the performers people? They are in fact working for it and we do pay big money to see other people perform all the time! Show some love. I look forward to future visits to the downtown Madison farmers market. It's an excellent way to spend a Saturday morning/afternoon. read more

Dane County Farmers' Market - My first day at the Dane County Farmers Market in the Madison square! More not pictured is in my belly! - Farmers Market Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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We came here excited to go to the largest locally farmers market in the country as my wife and I went to a many farmers markets in LA and one in Florida. When we arrived, the first thing we noticed was the beautiful capital building over shadowing the market. There was a lot of people walking around grazing. I was shocked by how little samples there were at the farmers market. I would think mostly all vendors would want to sample their products. No I'd say maybe only 20 of them did out of the 100s. Very shocking. We ended up buying honey from my new friend Dale, as he was wearing a beehive on his head. That's dedication to business for you. Everything else was the same stuff. Meats, veggies, and bread. No fruits at all at this time at the market. read more

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Going to the Saturday farmers market is my favorite thing to do in the spring/summer. There's a large variety of vendors and if you're looking for breakfast, there are a few vendors that have baked goods/bfast empanadas. Others have cheese, honey, meats, vegetables, soaps, sauces, and even rice. Tip- take cash and go early! I notice it gets very busy by 9:30/10am. There are a couple atm locations around the square if you need. read more

One of my favorite things to do on a summer Saturday. Never ending vendors (at least 50) surrounding the picturesque capital). Super fresh produce and delicious baked goods. My personal favorite baked goods are the paleo mamas treats (they don't even taste like they're paleo!, try the Samoa bars) and of course stellas cheesy bread. A must do if you're visiting Madison. I find it's best to just park in a parking garage so you're not driving around endlessly looking for street parking. The garages I've used are reasonably priced (1.80/hour). read more

Dane County Farmers' Market - Stellas cheesy bread - Farmers Market Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

The Farmer's Market is a staple downtown Madison, WI. The Saturday Farmer's Market is the Big Farmers Market, we have others across town and on different days, but the Main one is on Saturdays and in the center of down town! I have been desiring to get back here to get some of Stella's Cheesy bread, because I am a native of Madison and a cheese lover. It never disappoints. My family walked around the entire loop and we saw cheese, and honey, and jams, and veggies, and flowers and spreads, and baked goods. This space is always full of everything you could want. I always enjoy seeing the Farmers Market, for 1 reason, the vendors are excited to be there and will bargain with you (thats two reasons). A great day for the Farmers Market! read more

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This is a must do when coming to Madison. There is a parking lot right at the NE entrance of the market. They have plenty of food vendors right around the capitol and if you go into the streets they also have jewelry and other goods. You could easily spend 3+ hours here. You can also tour the capitol after to get some AC or use the bathrooms. Some of our favorites were the cheesy bread, cheese and spinach empanadas, and fruit smoothies. read more

This was my first time at the Dane County Farmer's Market. I enjoyed it because the weather was cool and sunny. It wasn't too crowded, especially in the morning. There was a good variety of vendors. No beverages really. My best tip is that the crowd walks counter clock-wise around the capitol. Make sure you do also! read more

This is my favorite farmers market. Although now because of this virus going around its not at the capital its at the Alliant Energy center. It is smaller than original. Its spaced out alot so not so crowded but now its not as many vendors that your used to or may not be there. Right now fruits and vegetables, cheese curds, flowers, bakery, famous spicy cheese bread some sauces and honey are mainly what you will find.You are suppose to wear a mask even outside they have a couple tables with hand sanitizer. Its kinda on gravel walking area so comfy shoes read more

This is a great Madison tradition not to be missed. Stroll, sample, sip and stare at this wonderful sensory spectacle. We try to make this a priority whenever we visit. read more

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So many choices at such good prices! Come early and do one lap first if you can but be mindful of stands you want to go back to and make purchases. Don't eat beforehand as you can pick up a fresh and delicious scone or other baked good. Local/seasonal fruits and veggies galore. read more

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There is nothing more to add onto the great reviews of the largest producer only outdoor market in the country. It is amazing and a Saturday ritual for me since I have been back in Madison for the past 10 years. Here are some tips for newbies: 1) Walk counter-clockwise with the other 99.8% of the people that have a clue. 2) Try to get there before 9 am. After that, it becomes a cattle call. 3) Unless you have a gaggle of kids, leave the wagon at home. Yes, it is kinda cute but super awkward to get around. 4) Gawking is ok but if you are doing so, try to keep it at a minimum. Doing so only backs up your fellow shoppers. And let's face it, we have all seen tomatoes, zucchini. and basil before. 5) Try not to smoke while walking. Remember where you are and the people around you. The person behind you probably has dreadlocks and walking barefoot and will mean mug the shit outta you for doing so. read more

ALL OTHER FARMERS MARKETS PALE IN COMPARISON! You have not lived your best farmers market life until you do the one in Madison. I was so spoiled growing up with this! The market is organized around the Capitol building/square and everyone walks in the same direction. You'll be swimming up stream and make people angry if you go the opposite way! Great people watching, fresh produce, beautiful flowers! My cousin's bridal party for married in Madison on a Saturday and picked out their bouquets that morning at the market! Pro tip: if you go at or before 8am it's not nearly as crowded Something to note: I believe they do not allow dogs/pets to be walking around the square when the market is happening Favorites: scones from the place that does almost exclusively scones (adore the espresso dark chocolate chip one!), garlic from the garlic man, honey from the guy who wears the beehive hat, cherry bomb hot sauce read more

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Visited yesterday with a girlfriend who lives in Madison (I live in TX). I was told I had to try the bread from Stella's, so I did and it was AMAZING! The farmers market had so much fresh produce! The farmers market where I live does not compare in the produce section! This was beyond my expectations. And all the fresh flowers made the air smell so sweet! read more

Dane County Farmers' Market - Farmers Market Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

The Farmer's Market is one of the best things about Madison. Whether you're just in town visiting or are a homegrown Sconnie, this is the place to be on Saturday mornings in the summer. The vendors wrap all the way around the capitol and food trucks line the streets. It's really incredible supporting local businesses and seeing all of the people that come out! Not to mention, most prices are cheaper than the grocery store, and everything is natural and local so you don't need to pay extra for the organic stuff! Food isn't the only thing you can buy! but the spicy cheese bread is jaw-droppingly tasty (yes, I know droppingly is not a word). You can get everything from the most stunning bouquets to t-shirts and paintings and even a petting zoo on select weekends! I would recommend going before 9am, the earlier the better, because once 8:30 hits, it's Disney World-level packed with people. My favorite times at the farmer's market have been around 7am when all of the early birds are there raving about the mushroom haul. read more

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Lived in Madison for 10 years and what I miss the most is this Farmers market. Farmer John's cheese curds are the best, the knock off spicy cheese bread, Yum Yum's I believe, is better than Stella's, the pumpkin cream cheese muffins from the black tent that sells scones (those are good too)- those are my favorite. Bakery items and Magic Coffee from the stand outside Graze also shouldn't be missed. Worked up a thirst and need a bloody? Genna's lounge has a build your own bloody Mary bar on Saturdays during the market. read more

Been fortunate to catch this farmer's market Saturday mornings in Madison which surrounds the capital square the past two times when coming from Chicago. The streets are blocked off surrounding the capital and you're free to circle the square as you like and check out all of the goods being sold. I believe it starts as early at 6am and people are usually all packed up and promptly headed out by 2pm. From the website, this farmer's market runs from April to early November, so take advantage while the weather is nice! They sell just about everything from cheeses, fresh locally grown produce, cheesy breads, and even a bunch of pop up trailer/food trucks line the block for business. Great spot to bring the family and enjoy the local vibes and lounge on the grassy areas surrounding the capital building. If hanging in Madison for a weekend, this farmer's market on Saturday mornings is a must! That's about all I got for ya on this one. 'Til next time, cheers! 185/365 read more

Autumn is such a wonderful time to indulge in the full bounty of the growing season. Yet another fantastic growing season has again blessed us with so many wonderful food gems. Please enjoy pics from my last outdoor visit from this 2018 season. The market is still going on strong and is now nestled indoors for the Winter months. DCFM....see you outdoors on the Mall in Spring 2019. Happy Holidays to Everyone! read more

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