The Monroe Street Farmer’s Market brings fresh produce and vibrant bouquets, Barrett’s Bagels before they sold out in the first two hours and live music to the near-West side neighborhood. The market is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
MSFM is located in the parking lot of Edgewood High School and is a 10 minute bus ride from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s campus. The market is also adjacent to multiple bike paths and is a part of the Bike Benefits program, giving discounts to those who bike.
Local residents and market-goers say the market offers a more lowkey alternative to the large Dane County Farmer’s market [every Saturday?] on the Capitol square.
The MSFM started in 2015 when residents of Monroe Street wanted to see a market in their neighborhood. Community volunteers help choose vendors each season and give input on decisions for the market. The farmer’s market mission is to be “a welcoming space to engage with your community all while supporting local southern Wisconsin businesses,” according to their website.
Amber Middleton has been the Market Manager since 2023 and helps organize the vendors’ booths and plan the live music, activities and special events happening within the market. Middleton said the market has its own “little micro community” within the largerMadison community.
Middleton appreciates the laid back feeling the market has compared to other markets nearby, as well as the ability to get to know the community on a personal level. “We invited some of our vendors to our wedding this year, and so they're very special,” Middleton said.
The market is appreciated within the Madison community. San Antonio natives Katherine and Abigail enjoyed Barrett’s Bagels. The pair also attended the Dane County Farmer’s Market the day prior, but said they liked the Monroe market more. “The prices are a little bit cheaper here,” Abigail said.
Katherine said it was a smaller and calmer atmosphere compared to the Dane County Farmer’s Market.
Aside from Barrett’s Bagels, the market has other notable vendors, including quick eats at Machiques’ empanadas, Harry Potter Sorting Hat Brookies at Bloom Bake, seasonal and sustainably grown flowers and fruits at Southpaw Fruit Farm and many more.
The market also hosts free kids activities including the traditional trick-or-treating event on Oct. 26, a celebration of the last farmer’s market of the season.
