Farmers Market in Toledo, Lucas County, United States | Market

Welcome to the Farmers Market, Toledo, United States. The Farmers Market of Toledo began in 1832, when many of the area farmers needed a place to sell their produce, and the community needed a centrally located place to shop. The Farmers Market started on Monroe, Superior and Washington Streets.

Saturday was a busy experience at the Market. The old stalls were painted bright colors to make them look new. Shoppers had to park on Superior and St. Clair Streets as parking on the Market was at a premium. Back then many housewives came to the Farmers Market to help with the family budget. It was not uncommon to see mom and dad buying bushels of corn, beans, peaches, potatoes, and other produce to freeze or can for the long winter months.  This agricultural co-op was formed with the help of the Warehouse District and the Department of Agriculture. With many of the farmer families being at the Market for over 80 years it was a difficult task to set up a governing body that was good for everyone. The City then decided to lease the Market to the Farmers Market Association. Plans were also being made for the third and final phase of Market reconstruction. The Association also hired an Executive Director and a Marketing Director to help run the "business". The Marketing Director position was eventually incorporated into the Executive Directors position making that a full-time position. Under the Association activity at the Market increased substantially.

Today, the Farmers Market is no longer Toledo's "best kept secret". It has a bright new look and is easily accessible to all including the handicapped. In addition to regular vendor stalls the Market has a Poultry House, an onsite office, and handicapped accessible restrooms.  The Farmers Market is a unique part of the history of the City of Toledo. As the Market continues to grow we see lots of improvements. The new Riverwalk along Swan Creek provides a nice place to relax while at the Market. In addition, development of The Market Place is bringing more people into the area.