Farmers Market Returns to Capitol Lawn

An effort returns this month to “Capitol-ize” the importance of agriculture to Michigan’s economy for state lawmakers.

On Aug. 18, dozens of Michigan farmers, bakers, craftspeople and market gardeners of various stripes will inhabit the east lawn of downtown Lansing’s stateliest building for the second time this summer to sell their goods at the Farmers Market at the Capitol.

Their offerings will include fruits, vegetables and flowers; eggs and meat; artisan cheeses; soap, honey and beeswax products; and more.

Jenny Radon, programs manager at the Michigan Farmers Market Association, expects about 65 vendors and between 6,000 and 8,000 customers.

Radon is passionate about ensuring those who make the laws in our state understand the vital significance of farmers and agricultural businesses in Michigan.

“We’re trying to figuratively and literally put Michigan agriculture on our state legislators’ doorstep, showing them how important agriculture in the state of Michigan is, and how important farmers markets are across the state and in their communities,” Radon said.

Vendors at the market, such as Sharon Ostrowski, owner and operator of SharKar Farm in China Township, also understand the market’s significance beyond just providing another venue for their goods.

“It gives the legislators an opportunity to come out and say, ‘Hi,’ and see what we do as farmers and craftspeople,” Ostrowski said.

Radon said the market benefits both the vendors and downtown businesses.

“This is a great opportunity for folks who are working downtown to swing by on their lunch break, do a little shopping, maybe grab some lunch and support other small businesses,” she said.

The first day of the 2022 Farmers Market at the Capitol was July 21. In addition to Aug. 18, the market will be held Sept. 29. Visit mifma.org/for-shoppers/farmers-markets-at-the-capitol/ for more information.