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Parks & Recreation - Farmers Market Customers

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1. What are the dates and hours of operation of the Portage Farmers Market?

Opening day of the Portage Farmers Market will be on May 7, 2023. It will run every Sunday thereafter until October 15, 2023. The market hours are from 9 AM to 1 PM.

2. What type of vendors will be at the Farmers Market?

There are four types of vendors that will be selling at the Portage Farmers Market: producers, growers, retailers and artisans. The number of non-food vendors and service vendors will be limited to ensure an authentic Farmers Market experience.

3. Where is the Farmers Market located?

During the 2023 season, the Portage Farmers Market will be located in the City Hall parking lot (7900 S Westnedge Avenue).

4. What types of payment will be accepted at the Portage Farmers Market?

All vendors will accept cash payment in US dollars. Some vendors will also be able to take credit card payments at their market stalls. The Portage Farmers Market will be NOT able to accept credit card payment in exchange for tokens. Portage Farmers Market Tokens will then be available for food assistance program participants. The Portage Farmers Market currently supports the following food assistance programs: SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, Senior Project Fresh, and WIC Farmers Market Nutritional Program. Food assistance programs cannot be used for services and non-food items.

5. What type of licensing do vendors have? What laws must they follow?

All vendors participating in the Portage Farmers Market must meet all Federal, State and local preparation, licensing, labeling and storage regulations. All vendors must also sell only products that are legal under Federal and State law.

6. How do I know that my "organic" products are really organic?

The Portage Farmers Market only allows its vendors to use the word "organic" in verbal or written form if they are Certified Organic, in accordance with the USDA National Organic Program. 

7. Can I contact my favorite vendors outside of market hours or after the Farmers Market has ended for the season?

Yes. Many of the vendors do have their own websites and Facebook pages. Each vendor and their contact information will also be listed on the website for the Portage Farmers Market at www.farmersmarket.portagemi.gov. 

8. Can I bring my pet to the Farmers Market with me?

Unfortunately, the Portage Farmers Market does not allow pets into the market or anywhere near where food is sold/consumed. However, registered service animals will be allowed entrance. 

9. Where can I park?

We ask that you do not park inside the Farmers Market area or in the parking spaces behind the vendor tents. There is plenty of parking inside the City Hall parking lot for customers and vendors. Additional parking is available on Brown Street and at First Reformed Church.

10. Are you open on Holidays and Holiday weekend?

Yes. If a market day happens to fall on a holiday or holiday weekend, the Portage Farmers Market will be open.

11. Does the market operate during rain, cold or snow?

Yes. The market normally operates in rain, cold and snow. However, it will not operate during emergency situations or when weather warnings have been issued.

12. Is the Portage Farmers Market Handicap Accessible?

Yes. There is plenty of handicapped parking spaces available to customers and vendors. Additionally, the market has enough space for customers using wheelchairs and other walking aids.

13. Is there an ATM at the Portage Farmers Market?

At this time there is not an ATM at the Portage Farmers Market, though there are two ATMS nearby the Portage Farmers Market at Comerica Bank and Huntington ATM.

14. How can I become a market volunteer?

We are always looking for volunteer to help out at the market. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact the Farmers Market Manager at 269-548-9481 or via email at pryora@portagemi.gov.

15. How do I contact the market about playing music?

Music and entertainment is one activity that we would love to add to the market this year. If you are interested in playing at the Portage Farmers Market, please contact the Market Manager at 269-548-9481 or via email at pryora@portagemi.gov

16. How do I contact the market about a potential event or activity?

We are always looking to add new events and activities to the Portage Farmers Market. If you have an event idea or are interested in hosting an event or activity, please contact the Farmers Market Manager at (269) 548-9481 or via email at martinh@portagemi.gov.

17. I have a question not answered here or have experienced an issue with the Farmers Market and/or a vendor selling at the Portage Farmers Market. Who do I contact?

Contact the Farmers Market Manager, Hannah Martin at (269) 329-4421 or martinh@portagemi.gov