Local farmers' markets are about so much more than fresh tomatoes and carrots! Markets provide access to healthy food, support local growers, and provide an avenue for strengthening community ties. 

The Grand Marais Farmers' Market takes place on Thursday afternoons from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. in the parking lot of the Cook County Community Center May/June - October. The market is managed by the Community Center in partnership with the Northwoods Food Project. 

 Live music, fresh apple pressing, apple cider, fresh popcorn, and games were all part of the celebration at the last market of the season

The last market of the year was on Thursday, October 12, 2023, and included live music, hot apple cider, popcorn, games, and more. To celebrate, here are some highlights of the amazing successes and benefits the market has provided the community this year.

Naturally, at the top of the list of benefits provided by all local farmers' markets is the boost to our local food growers and producers. On average, a producer receives under 16 cents of every dollar spent on food at a grocery store[1]. In contrast, a vendor selling at a Farmers Market receives more than 80% of the food dollar. For vendors selling at local markets, direct sales to you mean more earnings for their businesses which allows them to grow and sustain their livelihoods in our community.

In addition to vendor benefits, customers also reap the benefits of purchasing directly from vendors. When choosing items, customers can ask questions about the products since farmers are experts on the items they sell. They can offer cooking and serving information and a variety of other tips. In addition, the products purchased at a market are fresh from the garden or kitchen. Fresh food tastes great and has a higher nutritional value than food that has traveled far and sat on a shelf for days or weeks before you consume it.

 Community members wait in line to take advantage of their last chance at fresh, local produce from vendors for the season

Local farmers' markets are also a great way to increase health and wellness in the community. According to a study done by the Department of Agriculture in 2013, families with access to farmers' markets are, on average, 1.4 more servings of fruits and veggies than those without access to a market[2]. This year the Grand Marais Farmers Market introduced a program called The Power of Produce (PoP) Club for children ages 4-12, thanks to the sponsorship of the Oral Health Task Force. Each child enrolled in the program received $4 worth of fresh produce each week that they visited the market.  PoP Club was extremely successful with 90+ children enrolled. The participants were excited to carry their own bag to the market each week, shop for the produce they love and, in some instances, try some new items. The program has provided a great way to help teach our kids the importance of eating well.

A final benefit markets provide is the opportunity to visit with our neighbors. Studies have shown that those shopping at a farmers market have more than three times as many social encounters than they do at the grocery store[3]. This has proven true for our local market here in Grand Marais. We have observed that many families come to shop and linger to socialize. What a great way to connect with your community strengthening existing relationships and building new ones.

 Farmers' markets provide great opportunities for community members and families to connect while shopping 

This year our local market has been an incredible success! We had 13 vendors selling a variety of products from quail eggs and baked goods to mushrooms and vegetables! These faithful vendors provided superior products week after week. We are grateful for their hard work! Another exciting trend we saw this year was an increase in families visiting the Market together. It was a weekly outing for many community members and their families providing not only fresh market items, but community connections as well. 

About Cook County, MN 

Cook County encompasses the sovereign nation of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; the City of Grand Marais; the Townships of Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder; and unincorporated areas in the easternmost part of Minnesota’s North Shore. Cook County Government values transparency and strives to deliver superior services and programs in a fiscally responsible way. We value the dignity of all County residents and seek to create a community that provides opportunity for all. Many of our offices are in the Cook County Courthouse at 411 W 2nd St, Grand Marais 55604. Other departments and facilities, such as the Airport, Community Center, Highway and Sheriff are located nearby. Call 218-387-3000 or visit: https://co.cook.mn.us.