Downtown Elk River’s Outdoor Farmers Market opens June 13 with a special guest

by Jim Boyle

Editor

The 2024 Elk River Outdoor Farmers Market in downtown Elk River will begin on Thursday, June 13, and run through Oct. 10.

In addition to vendors selling produce, meat, eggs, dairy, flowers, plants, baked goods and specialty foods, there will be a special guest.

Rick Leistico, who bought and restored the former Kemper Drug sign, will be bringing the sign back downtown for photo ops for the opening day of the market.

Summer hours for the weekly event will be from 3 to 7 p.m., and will change to 3 to 6 p.m. in September.

Each week, Downtown Elk River hosts a wide variety of vendors featuring hand-crafted items, homemade foods and baked goods, plus farm fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, eggs, honey, maple syrup, and more.

The public is encouraged to come and enjoy market goodies, live music, and outdoor shopping with opportunities to save with discount days and rewards programs.

Karen Wingard, the coordinator of the farmers market for the city of Elk River, says the market gets better every year, and believes this year will be no different as it continues to evolve in new and exciting ways.

New for 2024, 500 shoppers will receive the 2024 Reusable Farmers Market Tote Bag on opening day. Compostable produce bags will be available at the Info Table for shoppers to take for free. There is no limit per shopper.

Canvas separated reusable tote bags will be available for shoppers to purchase for $10 a bag at the Info Table.

There will be environmental programs and earth-friendly giveaways.

Master Gardeners will be available each week.

Easy payment options include cash, credit cards, or EBT.

Parking is free.

For more information on the rewards program, senior days and other special events, visit https://www.elkrivermn.gov/895/Farmers-Market.