The Benton Harbor Farmers Market is open seasonally every Wednesday during the summer months in the heart of downtown Benton Harbor. The market offers a wide variety of delicious, locally-grown produce at affordable prices. Help support your local farmers, economy, and community by shopping at the Benton Harbor Farmers Market!

Follow us on Facebook for up-to-date information on market operations, weekly events, and what fruits and veggies are in season! 

Market Location

The Benton Harbor Farmers Market is located in the heart of downtown Benton Harbor in Dwight P. Mitchell City Center Park. 

Hours of Operation

The market will be open from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesdays starting June 21, 2023 and will run through September 13, 2023. 

Payment Methods Accepted

We accept SNAP Bridge Cards, WIC Project FRESH coupons, Senior Market FRESH coupons, and cash. If you use your Bridge Card, you can double your purchasing power with Double Up Food Bucks - for every $2 spent on your Bridge Card, we’ll give you an extra $2 to spend at the market (up to $20)!

Social Media

Follow the Benton Harbor Farmers Market on Facebook to get all the latest updates during the market season!

VENDOR INFORMATION 

We gladly welcome new and returning farmers and vendors to the market! Our market focuses on fresh produce, but encourages other food/goods vendors to the market as well. We won't charge you any vendor fees and can help get you set up to accept food assistance benefits that are used at the market. Find more information in the Benton Harbor Farmers Market Vendor Handbook, or give us a call at 269-927-5637. 

Vendor FAQs

How long does the market run?

The market takes place from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. every Wednesday from June 21 to Sept. 13. Vendors should plan to stay for the entire duration of the market. If you cannot for any reason, contact Market Coordinator Carla Smart-White  at 269-927-5637 or [email protected]

 How do I apply to be a vendor and when can I apply?

Applications are accepted throughout the season, and vendors are encouraged to join as they are able and have goods available. Review the vendor handbook and contact Market Coordinator Carla Smart-White  at 269-927-5637 or [email protected].

What time do vendors need to arrive?

Vendors should arrive to begin setting up between 9-9:30 a.m. Each vendor is responsible for setting up their own booth. Setup must be complete by 9:50 a.m.  

What items are allowed?

The farmers market welcomes five vendor types:

• Agricultural: Vendors with fresh produce; those who grow, raise or harvest products including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat/poultry, honey, grains and other crops.
• Value-added food: Vendors selling prepared foods made in a licensed facility or covered under cottage food laws.
• Artisans: Vendors who create and design handcrafted products such as jewelry or artwork.
• Activity volunteers: Organizations or individuals who lead hands-on activities at the market.
• Educators or information providers: Organizations or individuals who provide a service or demonstration of educational value.  

We will try our best to accommodate all qualifying vendors, but to keep a diversified selection for customers, we will limit the number of vendors offering products or services in the same category.

What forms of payment are used? 

In addition to cash, the farmers market supports a variety of food assistance programs including SNAP benefits, Double Up Food Bucks, WIC, Senior Project FRESH and Lakeland Prescription for Health. Market team members are available to help you and answer any questions you may have about these programs.

When is tear down? 

Tear down is from 3-4 p.m. after the market closes. Vendors are responsible for tearing down their own display and cleaning their booth area before leaving.

Are there any vendor fees?

No. The priority of the Benton Harbor Farmers Market is to provide affordable access to fresh, local produce, so we do not require any vendor fees 

Who is responsible for booth set up and clean up?

Each vendor is responsible for setting up and tearing down their booth space and making sure it is clean before leaving for the day.

Do I need to bring my own equipment? 

Vendors are responsible for bringing as much booth equipment as possible; this includes tents, tables, chairs, tablecloths, tent/canopies leg weights, etc. needed to make their booth space successful. If there is an absolute need, we can provide for produce vendors, but supplies are limited so we cannot accommodate everyone. All vendors are encouraged and welcome to bring their equipment to make their space successful. 

Who do I contact if I have a question? 

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Market Coordinator Carla Smart-White  at 269-927-5637 or [email protected].