From farmers markets to farm stands, the flavors and harvests that make summer in Montana special

It’s farmers market season, and this week marks National Farmers Market Week. Yes, it’s a celebration of the vital role these markets play in our nation’s food system, but it’s also to raise awareness of the deeper benefits, the connection these markets bring to local communities. Filled with fresh produce, local meats, baked goods, canned preserves and local arts and crafts, it’s a rich display of the effort, time and talent that goes into locally produced goods.

Agriculture in Montana

Agriculture has been foundational in Montana’s economy, and it still plays an important role. According to the Montana Pulse Crop Committee, "Montana continues to lead the nation in pulse production — and by a healthy margin. The numbers from the 2025 Acreage Report show that Montana remains the #1 producer of both dry peas and lentils, thanks to a combination of favorable growing conditions, established infrastructure, and years of farmer experience." Here in the Gallatin Valley, the soil is so dense with nutrients that it’s earned the nickname, “Black Gold.”

Montana also ranks third in the country for seed potato production, with a concentration in the Manhattan and Churchill areas here in our region. Part of this success lies in the Montana State University Potato Lab, the only seed potato certification program for Montana growers. All seed potatoes grown in Montana are started in this lab, grown in sterile cultures before being transferred to growers who start them in disease-free greenhouses and then to the fields. These potatoes are called first-generation and undergo extensive testing to remain disease-free before they are used to grow subsequent crops.

Local Markets and Farm Stands

As for our local markets, they are robust and plentiful. There are 12 major markets across our region, with several farm stands operating on local farms and a few U-Pick operations. And, if you’re interested in getting some dirt under your nails, some farms offer paid and volunteer opportunities for harvesting.

Abundant Montana offers a comprehensive guide to all the farmers markets in the state, available here. They also offer a map of local farms, a local food guide and a terrific blog where you can learn more about our local food system.

We hope you’ll seek out a market, farmstand or local farm while you are in town — farmers welcome the opportunity to share information about their operations.