Red River Market
Fargo, North Dakota
By Nicole Thom-Arens
Published in 2023
I often say that farmers’ market season is my favorite season. It’s only partially true, though, because I love aspects of all four seasons, and we’re so lucky in the Upper Midwest to get to enjoy all of them—most years.
I do love the farmers’ market, though. It’s so inspiring to see rows and rows of fresh colorful produce on display out in the open—vegetables I’ve never thought about cooking are suddenly appealing. Farmers’ markets are also places of joy. Even with long lines and crowds, I’ve never seen an unhappy person at a farmers’ market. It’s a pleasure connecting with local farmers about the produce and learning from them and other shoppers what to do with an eggplant to make it shine at the dinner table.
I’ve been a loyal attendee to the Red River Market since moving back to Fargo in 2019. The market started in 2015 with about 800 weekly attendees, according to its website. Today, the Red River Market records about 8,000 attendees weekly and hosts more than 90 local farmers and makers.
While I mainly attend the market for access to locally grown produce (fall is my favorite when pumpkins, squash, and root veggies are prevalent), there are many other attractions. Each week, organizers feature local musicians and present cooking demonstrations, which feature ingredients purchased at the market. Vendors include vegetable farmers, honey producers, florists, and bakers, which are typical of a local farmers’ market, but Red River Market also offers space for food trucks and venders serving up cuisine from around the world. There are also spaces for breweries (beer and cider) and makers who sell handmade jewelry, pottery, and clothing.
I do love the farmers’ market, though. It’s so inspiring to see rows and rows of fresh colorful produce on display out in the open—vegetables I’ve never thought about cooking are suddenly appealing. Farmers’ markets are also places of joy. Even with long lines and crowds, I’ve never seen an unhappy person at a farmers’ market. It’s a pleasure connecting with local farmers about the produce and learning from them and other shoppers what to do with an eggplant to make it shine at the dinner table.
I’ve been a loyal attendee to the Red River Market since moving back to Fargo in 2019. The market started in 2015 with about 800 weekly attendees, according to its website. Today, the Red River Market records about 8,000 attendees weekly and hosts more than 90 local farmers and makers.
While I mainly attend the market for access to locally grown produce (fall is my favorite when pumpkins, squash, and root veggies are prevalent), there are many other attractions. Each week, organizers feature local musicians and present cooking demonstrations, which feature ingredients purchased at the market. Vendors include vegetable farmers, honey producers, florists, and bakers, which are typical of a local farmers’ market, but Red River Market also offers space for food trucks and venders serving up cuisine from around the world. There are also spaces for breweries (beer and cider) and makers who sell handmade jewelry, pottery, and clothing.
A few years ago, the Red River Market moved to Broadway Square where booths run along Second Avenue N. both east and west of Broadway. As a visitor, it is clear that the new location is an attraction for others in the F-M area. On opening weekend 2023, the streets were packed with visitors. While some may appreciate a quieter market, I believe the number of people who attend week after week is a wonderful display of community pride.
The Red River Market runs Saturdays (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) July 8 through Oct. 28. Don't miss your photo opportunity by the signature red truck!
The Red River Market runs Saturdays (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) July 8 through Oct. 28. Don't miss your photo opportunity by the signature red truck!
