Farmers Market Season Begins Across Yellowstone Country
Photo by Donnie Sexton
Local food has always been important to Montanans; in recent years, local options have increased. In 1995, Abundant Montana published their first annual Local Food Guide mapping all the sustainable alternatives. They began with 40 farms and ranches; today, there are over 700.
And while the growing interest is an essential step in the right direction, it’s important to note that in 1950, Montanans grew 70% of the food they consumed. Today, just 3% of our food is grown locally. So the more demand for local products, the more the supply chain will expand to support it.
Farmers markets start next week, with twelve markets spread across the YC region. These local markets are a great way to explore locally grown foods, interact with local farmers and producers, and be a part of the web of local communities.
Each market has its vibe - some run in the evenings, with live music, food booths, and family-friendly activities. Others take place on Saturday, where you can leisurely stock up for the week. But, no matter the venue, you will always find quality produce, meats, eggs, herbs, plants, flowers, baked goods, and preserves.
Often associated with several of our farmers markets are artisan crafts, woodworking, jewelry, and other local gems. Many go not only for the food but also to stock up on locally-made gifts!
Photo by Kaden Harrison
2023 Farmers Markets
Belgrade Community Farmers Market
Every Thursday, July 6- Aug 17
4–7 pm.
Belgrade Senior Center
92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade, MT
A lovely community market with fresh produce, lively vendors, and various crafts.
Big Sky Farmers Market
Wednesdays, June 7-Sept. 28
5–8 pm
Big Sky Town Center, Big Sky, MT
Over 100 vendors with fresh produce, herbs, plants, flowers, baked goods, woodworking, furniture, fine art, jewelry, and clothing.
Big Timber, Sweet Grass County Farmer’s Market
Fridays, July 15-Sept. 8
4:30-7:30 pm
Lions Park, McLeod, and 108 E 8th Ave
Produce, Handcrafts, food vendors, and live music.
Bohdi Farms Farmers Market
Thursdays, June 15- Sept,
5–8 pm
13624 S. Cottonwood Road, Bozeman, MT
Enjoy exploring the farm, shop for produce, and enjoy a dinner of garden fresh apps, salads, and sandwiches.
Bozeman Farmers’ Market
Tuesdays, June 20-Sept. 12
5–8 pm
Lindley Park, 900 E Main, Bozeman, MT
A family favorite, this market has numerous food trucks, live music, a playground for the kids, and a plethora of fresh meat, produce, and preserved goods. In addition, enjoy perusing the many purveyors of arts and crafts. During the winter months, enjoy the Bozeman Winter Farmer’s Market!
Photo by Kaden Harrison
Columbus Farmers Market
Thursdays
4–6:30 pm
Grant Peak Park, Columbus, MT
Interact with local producers while stocking up on locally grown produce, baked goods, BBQ, honey, preserves, and crafts.
Gallatin Valley Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, June 17-Sept.
9 am-noon
Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 N Black, Bozeman, MT
A popular market with unique produce, meats, flowers, prepared foods, and crafts.
Livingston Farmers Market
Wednesdays, June-Sept.
5:30–7:30 pm
229 River Drive, Livingston, MT
Homegrown fruit, veggies, meat, herbs, starts, flowers, furniture, apparel, handmade soap, paper, snacks, drinks, prepared meals, and live music!
Manhattan Farmer’s Market
Wednesdays, beginning June 14
4–7 pm
Main and S. Broadway, Manhattan, MT
Local produce, musicians, and various children’s activities and educational exhibits.
Red Lodge Farmer’s Market
Saturdays starting June 10
9 am-noon
8th Street, Red Lodge, MT
Farm-raised meats, fruits, and vegetables.
Shield’s Valley Farmers Market
Mondays, June-August
4:30- 7 pm
Holliday Park, Clyde Park, MT
Local vendors sell produce, prepared foods, baked goods, craft items, and live music to enjoy throughout the evening! All alongside spectacular views of the Crazy Mountain Range.
Three Forks Farmer’s Market
Thursdays, Memorial Day through Labor Day
4–7 pm
John Q. Adams Park, Three Forks, MT
Locally grown bedding plants, herbs, flowers, and seasonal fruits and vegetables.