Lincoln Park's 'Touchstone' Farmers Markets Return Soon

With 85 degree temperatures Tuesday came the release of the season's Chicago Farmers Markets schedules, including the local Armitage Avenue and Orchard Street hotspot.

The city-run markets will begin selling fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers in about two weeks. The local market will be open for business in the Lincoln Park High School parking lot, 2001 N. Orchard St., starting Saturday, May 11, according to an announcement made by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. 

"Our farmers markets are cultural touchstones for the city, but more importantly they bring fresh product directly to our residents and visitors," he said, in a news release. "We are proud to have added five new markets on the west side last year, bringing a variety of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables and valuable nutritional information to under-served neighborhoods.

The markets boast more than 70 vendors throughout the city.

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This year, the program will offer two "spin-off" locations—night markets in Logan Square and Argyle. The Logan Square one will set up shop from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. between June 26 and Sept. 4 and the Argyle market will be available from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. between June 27 and Sept. 19.

"The new stand-alone night markets will happen weekly and include some vendors from the city's other farmers markets, as well as having live performances and arts and crafts, with local artisans and local restaurants participating," the announcement says.

The markets are the product of a collaborative effort by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, known as DCASE, Country Financial and the city of Chicago. DCASE has once again partnered with Experimental Station to accept the LINK card at 15 markets including the five newer markets in "food deserts."

“The Farmers Markets Program is one of my favorite ways to welcome spring," DCASE Commissioner Michelle Boone said, in a news release. "It signifies that the outdoor growing season is back and fresh product is available throughout our neighborhoods."

The neighborhood's other popular produce spot, Green City Market at 2430 N. Cannon Drive, will move outdoors starting May 4. The endeavor is a nonprofit one celebrating its 12th year during the upcoming 2013 season.