Mark your calendars for National Farmers Market Week, running from Sunday to next Saturday, which aligns with the peak season for the freshest farm produce and other ag goodies. St. Louis boasts the Soulard Farmers Market, a fixture since its inception and claimed to be the longest continuously operating market west of the Mississippi. This venue isn't just a market; it's a slice of history and a hub for both locals and visitors looking for fresh, budget-friendly foods among other wares.
Upgrades are on the horizon for Soulard Farmers Market with a planned facelift that includes electrical updates, new roofing, and a touch-up on the vendor wings stretching from 7th Street to 9th Street, in need of repair due to age and weather. According to the City of St. Louis, the market will also undergo tuckpointing, preserving its distinctive architecture and style elements that anchor it as a St. Louis landmark.
The market, as the director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Greg Hayes told the City of St. Louis, "is rooted in the history of St. Louis," playing an essential role as a commerce center. The imminent investment is poised to enhance its longevity without compromising the historical features that define its uniqueness.
With over 100 vendors, including six local farms, Soulard Farmers Market is known for its wide array of goods spanning from produce, meat, fish, baked goods, to non-food items like apparel and arts and crafts. As defined by the free public parking lot across the street from 7th and Carroll, Soulard is very much a starting point for many small enterprises. Market manager Bob Ray shared that because of its affordable rent and consistent customer flow, it has been an incubator for small businesses. Places like Freddie Lee's Gourmet Sauces and Lona's Lil Eats cut their teeth here, both have significantly grown since their humble beginnings at the market.
For those planning to visit, Soulard Farmers Market welcomes shoppers year-round, Wednesday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's situated at 730 Carroll Street in St. Louis, MO with metered street parking and aforementioned free parking available nearby. Vendor hours might vary, so it's wise to check ahead for those with specific stops in mind.
