A cool breeze, pops of color on the trees and the sight of mums, pumpkins and gourds at the Eagle River Farmers Market are a welcome change of pace from the hustle and bustle of summer. But they also signal something else: market season is nearing its end.
Held outdoors along Michigan Street/Highway 45 just north of the bridge, the twice-weekly market’s last days will be Sunday, Oct. 4, and Wednesday, Oct. 7.
Despite a cold, rainy start in early May, the market has enjoyed a strong 2026 season, drawing 950 to 1,290 customers on Wednesdays and 1,200 to more than 1,600 on Sundays during July and August, according to Jo Ann Simons, executive director of Eagle River Revitalization Program (ERRP), which manages the market.
“It got to the point by the third Wednesday of the farmers market that you expected a cold storm and crossed your fingers that the sky would bypass Eagle River,” Simons said. “Once we got through May, the climate warmed up and the sun peeked its head out at nearly every one of the farmers markets.”
Just last week, the sun was once again shining as shoppers ventured out to stock up on fruits and vegetables, smell the seasonal flowers, grab a sweet treat or simply take a stroll in the crisp fall air. At this point in the season, many visitors are familiar with the vendors and head straight to their favorite stands.
“Vendors like to get a spot and remain in the same spot all season,” Simons observed. “Partly because they like their vendor neighbors, and partly because they want their customers to find them in the same spot.”
Beyond produce, the market offers plants, baked goods ranging from pies and bagels to sourdough bread, jams, honey, handmade arts and crafts, and more, as well as food trucks.
Of the approximately 75 vendor applications received before the season, about 60 were accepted, with participation limited to farmers and artisans who make their products by hand, according to Simons.
The vendor lineup changes throughout the season as different crops become available and vendors sell out of their products, opening spaces for those on the waiting list. At least four Wednesday vendors have greenhouses, allowing them to offer locally grown produce earlier in the season than other area growers.
Some products proved especially popular this summer. Simons recalled one vendor who sold every bit of his maple syrup by the end of July, while Grandma's Pies regularly sold out before 10:30 a.m.
Looking ahead
Simons, who is working the market for the first time this year after being named ERRP's executive director last fall, said the board is already planning changes for 2027.
In hopes of avoiding another cold start, next year's opening date has been pushed to Sunday, May 23. Simons also plans to invite musicians to perform at some Sunday markets and expand Kids Day in July, which this year featured face painting, balloon animals, a petting zoo and free sports physicals from Nova Integrated Care.
Next year, nonprofits will also be able to use free vendor space when available in exchange for helping with market setup and cleanup.
Simons plans to continue the 8:30 a.m. live videos that gained traction this year on the Eagle River Farmers Market Facebook page, giving viewers a look at which vendors are present and what they're selling before they head out. A recent broadcast garnered more than 6,000 views.
ERRP also hopes to bring in a dedicated market manager next summer, freeing up Simons to focus on other projects.
“It’s all about quality improvement in so many ways,” Simons said. “I know next summer will be even better than this year.”
Residents and visitors have just a few opportunities left to enjoy the Eagle River Farmers Market before the season ends. The market runs Sundays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 621 N. Michigan St. in Eagle River. For more information, visit eagleriverrevitalization.org, call 715-477-0645 or find the Eagle River Farmers Market on Facebook.
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