Rise and shine for a Saturday morning at the Des Moines' Historic Court District for the Downtown Farmers' Market. Smells of spicy breakfast burritos, fresh-squeezed juice, and fried donuts fill the air. Booths of colorful vibrant flowers, handcrafted jewelry, homemade soaps, and fresh produce line the streets every Saturday through the summer to fall.
The Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market has been ranked the #2 market in both the 101 Best Farmers' Markets in America and the Top Farmers Markets of the United States. The Market welcomes 300+ local vendors and entrepreneurs from across the state with an average attendance of 20,000 people every Saturday, May through October.
This popular Greater Des Moines tradition is perfect for a morning out with friends, family or pets. Bring your dog to check out local businesses and their specialty dog treats. Gather your friends for a walk along the streets to get fresh flowers and sip on a mimosa. Take your kiddos out for a breakfast burrito and balloon animals while you shop for locally sourced produce.
While you roam the streets of Downtown Des Moines, listen to street performers such as jazz musicians, folk bands, violinists, percussionists and more! Live music creates that perfect atmosphere for experiencing the culture and vitality of The Market.
The Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market is a hotspot for residents and travelers. Attracting people of all ages and from all different backgrounds, this is where the state of Iowa comes together to taste and take home a piece of Midwestern culture.
Helpful Hints
Deals: Before you attend the Market, text the word “market” to 46986 to receive exclusive coupons and offers every Friday before the Market for local vendors featured each week!
Parking: Worried about navigating and parking for the Farmers Market? You’re in luck! Rates are as low as $1/hour in downtown Des Moines. Park in the Third Street and Court Avenue ramp, Science Center of Iowa ramp, or the Fourth Street and Grand Avenue parking ramp.
If you don’t mind a bit of a walk, park at the ramps near Western Gateway Park or Wells Fargo Arena. Free parking is also available in lots on the edge of downtown Des Moines.
D-line Shuttle & Biking: During The Market season, the free D-Line shuttle runs along Grand Avenue and Locust Street between First Street and Fifth Avenue every 10 minutes.
Take advantage of warm summer mornings and bike to The Market. Secure it freely at the bike valet, thanks to the Des Moines Street Collective.
So, now that you’re coming to the Saturday morning Market...what’s next?
Stay for a while! After noon, take a stroll through downtown Des Moines, immersing yourself in the colorful public art and many culinary options. Head to Fong’s Pizza for an Eastern twist on an Italian classic or walk down the road to Peace Tree Brewing Co., to enjoy a refreshing pint of a local craft brew.
After satisfying your thirst or hunger cravings, check out the Science Center of Iowa for an afternoon of learning and fun for the whole family! Take a walk along the Principal Riverwalk or explore the Historic East Village for more unique shopping among a multitude of local boutiques.
