Arlington Heights Farmers Market Named Best In Illinois

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — With just one date left for the season, the Arlington Heights Farmers Market is the place to be this weekend. The market was just named the best in Illinois by American Farmland Trust, a national nonprofit, that oversaw a contest involving 1,263 markets nationwide.

As part of its 17th annual America's Farmers Market Celebration, the Washington, D.C.-based organization said over 60,000 votes were cast.

"We've always believed our market was a special place, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that recognized on a statewide level," Maggie Sraga, operations manager for the Arlington Heights Farmers Market, tells Patch. "This honor affirms the dedication of our volunteers, vendors, and community who make the market such a welcoming space every Saturday."

The final farmers market of the season is scheduled for 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, in the commuter parking lot at the corner of Vail and Fremont Street, directly across from the Arlington Heights Historical Museum. The Arlington Heights Farmers Market is managed by the Arlington Heights Historical Society.

"It's been a special season. Every year feels like it keeps getting better and better, and this year was no different," Sraga said. "We broke attendance records week after week and there seemed to be a real buzz around the market."

According to Sraga, the market welcomed more than 25 local community groups this year. The partnerships give local groups a platform to share their mission, connect with residents, "and showcase the creativity and compassion that define Arlington Heights."

Each week, the market includes hot food, fresh produce, live music and family activities. The Arlington Heights Farmers Market has over 50 vendors, according to its website. Sraga credits the vendors, volunteers and the vibes for making the market so special.

"We love the positive vibes and sense of community that is felt throughout our market," Sraga said. "Our market has turned into a meeting spot on Saturday's for our community, and we are really proud of that."

With the 2025 season winding down, Sraga said the market and its employees will take some time to look back at the accomplishment of winning the award. Planning for next year will begin soon, with a goal of expanding the market's footprint, including additional vendors and special events.