If you live in the Chippewa Valley, you already know that summer here is something special. And one of the things I look forward to most every single year? Farmers market season.
There is just something about starting your Saturday morning with a warm cup of coffee, wandering through rows of fresh flowers and homegrown vegetables, and chatting with the farmers who actually grew everything on that table. It is one of those simple pleasures that makes living in a place like this feel really, really good.
Whether you are a lifelong Chippewa Valley local or you are researching what life here could look like, the farmers markets in the Chippewa Valley are honestly one of the best parts of summer. So let me walk you through where to go, when to show up, and what to expect at each one.
Why Farmers Markets Are a Big Deal in the Chippewa Valley
The Chippewa Valley is surrounded by incredible farms. And the people here genuinely care about buying local. That combination makes our farmers markets feel alive in a way that you do not always find in bigger cities.
These markets are not just a place to grab a zucchini. They are community gathering spots. You will run into neighbors, discover a new small business, let your kids pick out something they want to try, and probably end up with a bouquet of fresh flowers you did not plan on buying. No complaints.
For families relocating to the area, this is also a really beautiful window into what life here actually looks like. If you are curious about the Chippewa Valley community feel, pull up on a Saturday morning. You will get it immediately.
Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market at Phoenix Park
This one is the big one. The Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market is a producers-only market, which means every single vendor grew, raised, or made what they are selling. No resellers. Just real farmers and real makers.
It is set up right in Phoenix Park in downtown Eau Claire, which is already one of the most gorgeous spots in the city. The pavilion sits along the Chippewa River and on Saturday mornings it fills up with vendors, live music, and honestly some of the best people-watching in the area.
Hours (June through October)
Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Thursday: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Yes, three days a week! That is what I love about this market. You can hit the Saturday morning crowd energy, pop in on a Wednesday on your lunch break, or take a relaxed Thursday afternoon stroll. There is really no excuse not to go.
What you will find: fresh produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, local honey, flowers, artisan crafts, and live music every single Saturday. The market also participates in SNAP/EBT and WIC programs, which is something I appreciate about this community.
Casey’s tip: Get there early on Saturdays. The good stuff goes fast, especially in peak summer. Bring a reusable bag, a little cash, and let the kids each pick out one special treat. It makes the whole trip more fun.
Chippewa Falls Farmers Market at Riverfront Park
As a Chippewa Falls gal myself, I am a little biased, but this market is SO good. The Chippewa Falls Farmers Market runs every Thursday at Riverfront Park, right along the Chippewa River in downtown Chippewa Falls.
It has a small-town feel that I genuinely love. You are going to find fresh vegetables, local fruit, maple syrup, honey, meat, mushrooms, baked goods, hand-poured candles, woodworking, art, and more. There are usually food trucks too, so plan to grab lunch and stay awhile.
Hours (June through mid-October)
Every Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The market season runs June 4 through October 16, 2026. Free admission to browse, you just pay for what you buy.
Casey’s tip: After the market, wander across the street to Market on River for more local food and shopping. It is a perfect Thursday afternoon outing, especially during the summer.
Lake Street Farmers Market at the Eau Claire County Government Center
This one is a little more low-key, but do not sleep on it. The Lake Street Farmers Market is a Tuesday afternoon option in downtown Eau Claire, right next to the Chippewa River. It is a great option for a quick weekday market run without the Saturday crowd.
You will find produce, flowers, baked goods, jams and jellies, coffee, and more from local vendors. It has a relaxed, community feel that I really enjoy.
Hours
Every Tuesday: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (June through September)
Casey’s tip: This market does not charge vendor fees, which means you get a fun rotating mix of local makers showing up throughout the season. A great spot to discover someone new.
Menomonie Farmers Market at Wilson Park
About 30 to 45 minutes from Chippewa Falls, the Menomonie Farmers Market is worth the drive if you are looking for a full farmers market experience. It runs twice a week at Wilson Park and offers a producers-only setup with locally raised and handmade goods.
Think: fresh veggies and fruit, cheeses, baked goods, pottery, and crafts. It has a great community feel and the Wilson Park setting is lovely.
Hours
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
If you are already planning a day trip to the Red Cedar Valley area (which I 100% recommend for summer), build the farmers market into your morning.
Osseo Farmers Market at Central Park
A hidden gem. The Osseo Farmers Market runs Monday evenings in Central Park and it has that small-town charm that I just love about this area. If you are in the southern part of the Chippewa Valley, this one is worth adding to your list.
Hours
Every Monday: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
An easy after-work stop or a fun family Monday evening outing.
Bonus: Wheatfield Hill Organics Thursday Market on the Farm
If you want something a little different, check out the Wheatfield Hill Organics market on the farm in Durand. This one runs Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., July 16 through October. Organically grown produce in a farm setting is a really special experience, especially if you are curious about the homesteading lifestyle.
Honestly, it is the kind of stop that makes you feel like you are really living that Chippewa Valley life. 💕
Chippewa Valley Farmers Market Quick Reference Guide
Here is a quick overview so you can plan your week:
Monday: Osseo Farmers Market, Central Park | 5 to 7 p.m.
Tuesday: Lake Street Farmers Market, Eau Claire County Government Center | 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday: Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market, Phoenix Park | 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. AND Menomonie Farmers Market, Wilson Park | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday: Chippewa Falls Farmers Market, Riverfront Park | 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. AND Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market, Phoenix Park | 12 to 5 p.m. AND Wheatfield Hill Organics (July-October) | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday: Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market, Phoenix Park | 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. AND Menomonie Farmers Market, Wilson Park | 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
You could honestly hit a different farmers market every single day of the week in this area. That is one of the things I love about living here.
Tips for Making the Most of Farmers Market Season
Bring cash. Most vendors accept cards these days, but having a little cash on hand makes things easy.
Bring a reusable bag or two. You will need them.
Go early, especially on Saturdays. The freshest selection and the best energy is in the first hour.
Let the kids pick something. Whether it is a cookie, a flower, or a weird vegetable they want to try, it makes the market a memory instead of just an errand.
Follow your favorites on Facebook. Market vendors often post about what they are bringing that week so you can plan ahead for the good stuff.
Thinking About Moving to the Chippewa Valley?
I moved here in 2017 and I can genuinely say that places like the farmers market are a big part of why I love this area so much. This is the kind of community where people still show up for each other, support local businesses, and take the time to actually talk to the person who grew their food.
If you are in the early stages of thinking about a move to the Eau Claire or Chippewa Falls area, I would love to help you get a feel for what living here is really like. Check out my Moving to Eau Claire or Chippewa Falls guide for more of the good stuff, or grab my free Chippewa Falls Local Guide which is packed with local favorites across dining, shopping, activities, and more.
And if you want to see more of what summer looks like around here, check out my guide to the Best Things to Do in Eau Claire & Chippewa Falls This Summer. Your summer bucket list awaits.
Let’s Find You a Home in the Chippewa Valley 💕
If you are looking for a community with great schools, a strong local food culture, beautiful outdoor spaces, and neighbors who actually wave hello, you are going to love it here.
I am Casey Levrich, a REALTOR® with Symple Real Estate serving the Chippewa Valley area. I specialize in helping families relocate to this area and find the home that fits the life they are building. If you have questions about what neighborhoods look like, what the buying process involves, or just want to know more about life in Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls, I would love to connect.
Reach out anytime. I love talking about this place. Chat soon! 🌸