Farmers’ markets support a variety of vendors that sell many different kinds of products. These vendors sell items such as fresh produce, floral arrangements, pet accessories and even worms. The farmers’ market provides vendors a chance to get their name out there and gain more publicity in order to grow their business. These markets are typically open on weekends, where customers can be found browsing goods under the shade of multicolored tents.

The Lake St. Louis Farmers’ and Artists’ Market offers a wide range of products, such as pastries, fresh produce and pottery pieces. It is located within Meadow Circle Drive, and is open 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturdays. Each week, there are around 85 booths at the market, according to lakestlouisfarmersandartistsmarket.com.

“I always buy handmade soaps and candles, because it looks and smells way better than stuff you buy at big box stores,” sophomore Grace Ward said. “Plus, you are simultaneously supporting a small business.”

The winter markets will open an hour later than the regular market, starting at 9 a.m. and going till 12 p.m. Opening day for the market’s 2022 season will be April 2, according to lakestlouisfarmersandartistsmarket.com. The Lake St. Louis Farmers’ and Artists’ Market has a Facebook page and website with more information, as well as applications to become a vendor for the 2022 season.

“I almost sold [my produce] there because I had too many vegetables in my garden,” Ward said. “I never did, but I might next year, depending on how the growing season is.”

Another local market is the St. Charles Farmers Market, located in The Foundry Arts Center Parking Lot. It is typically open on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon. One can find baked goods, crafts, plants and sewn items at this location, along with many other products. This market is now closed, as of Oct. 23, but will be back in 2022. An opening date has not yet been announced, however, updates are posted through the market’s Facebook page.

All in all, farmers’ markets can be a family friendly way to spend the weekend, and can help out small businesses.