When we say nothing beats an Austin farmers market, here’s what we mean: Austin is obsessed with artisan goods and bee products; our markets are exciting enough for a first date and easy enough for a Sunday routine; and these things are basically festivals.
In keeping with the latter, Texas Farmers’ Market has a whole weekend of programming on August 12 and 13 celebrating National Farmers Market Week. The fundraising weekend with chef appearances, live music, and more is free to attend, but suggests a donation of $5 per person or family.
Programming for Saturday, August 12, at Lakeline:
- Live music by New Orleans-influenced band the Mighty Pelicans
- Kids’ scavenger hunt and face painting
- Market chef demos with free samples of fresh produce
Programming for Sunday, August 13, at Mueller:
- Live music by “Pan-American Soul” performer Frederico7
- Kids’ scavenger hunt
- Chef demo by Philip Speer, four-time James Beard Award nominee and owner of cornerstone Austin Mexican restaurant Comedor
“Every week, our small but mighty team set up and break down our markets — rain or shine, record-breaking heat or snow — and work tirelessly to provide vibrant community gathering spaces for all to participate in our local food economy,” said Executive Director Laura McDonald in a press release.
Texas Farmers’ Market, despite its broad name, is based in Austin and produces two markets weekly, year round, at Mueller and Lakeline. Its parent organization, a nonprofit called F2M Texas, works on educating local producers and consumers on sustainable food systems.
More than 50 producers benefit from these partnerships, and in 2022, the markets had an impact of $7.5 million. Entire restaurants have been launched from the market, like Mum Foods, famous for its pastrami.
Although farmers markets often have a reputation for being expensive and inaccessible, Texas Farmers Market accepts SNAP and WIC, two healthy food benefit programs for low-income Texans. Last year, it distributed more than $75,000 in benefits.
Texas Farmers’ Market operates on Saturdays at 11200 Lakeline Mall Dr. and Sundays at 2006 Philomena St. More information about the event and regular market activity is available at texasfarmersmarket.org.