Peoria Riverfront Market is back. Here's what to know about vendors, hours and parking
Community members can find farmers, bakers and makers at the Peoria Riverfront Market, located at 212 SW Water St.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the market. Peoria RiverFront Association executive director Sharon Gramm said commemorative T-shirts will be available for the first Riverfront Market on May 20. Over 100 vendors are set to attend.
“We've been growing steadily over the past 10 or 15 years,” Gramm said. “This is definitely the biggest opening day that we have.”
If you plan on visiting the market this season, here is some information to keep in mind.
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Who are the vendors?
Gramm said the Riverfront Market does not put out a seasonal list of vendors, as some change from week to week.
She advises following the the market’s social media accounts to see posts about specific farmers and vendors. The Facebook page has recently highlighted local businesses such as Cabin Fever Crumbs, Saturday Morning Tea Co. and R.E. Arends Orchard.
Here are some attractions visitors may find:
Entertainment: Gramm said the market typically offers face painting and balloon art. Local bands also offer live music.
Farmers: Around eight farmers will be at the market on opening day, Gramm said, such as Jenkins Country Comforts. Gramm described the market as a “producers-only market,” which means vendors can only sell what they have made themselves in the state of Illinois.
“So, the market changes a little bit each week as far as what's offered,” she said.
Other produce farms that will participate this season include Garden Spot Vegetable Farm and Grandma & Grandpa's Farm.
Multiple flower growers — such as Kira’s Flowers — are also set to operate at the market.
Down River Farm will not be present this year, as owner Evan Barry searches for new land to grow on.
Crafts: Gramm said craft vendors make up roughly 30% to 40% of the market. Visitors will be able to find a variety of items, including artwork, jewelry, candles and more.
Packaged foods: Some vendors will offer jarred items, baked goods and other prepackaged foods, Gramm said. Radish Kitchen will be operating at the Riverfront Market for the first time, with plans to sell homemade juices, vegan cheeses and more.
Food trucks/restaurants: Visitors will find restaurants and food trucks from previous years, as well, Gramm said. These include businesses such as:
[CxT] Roasting Company
Faire Coffee
Martinis on Water Street
Martinis will offer its mimosas and bloody marys. This season, Gramm said, The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern will also begin offering breakfast.
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What to know when you go
How long does the season run? The Peoria Riverfront Market opens for the season on May 20 and will run through Sept. 30.
Hours: The market runs from 8 a.m. until noon each Saturday.
When is it the busiest? Gramm said the Peoria Riverfront Market will typically welcome between 4,000 to 5,000 visitors each Saturday. She said the busiest days tend to fall between mid-June and mid-August, when the most produce is available.
Gramm said the market operates “rain or shine.”
“One of the best times to come to the market is also when it may not be a perfectly sunny day,” Gramm said. “We're not as busy and it gives you the opportunity to chat with the farmers and talk to them about their growing practices or maybe learn a new way to cook a certain type of vegetable.”
Parking: Those visiting the market can use street parking, which is free on Saturdays. There is also a free public parking lot at 300 SW Water St.
Are Link cards accepted? Yes. Gramm said visitors who are looking to use their Link cards at the market can get money converted to wooden tokens to shop with near the front information area.
The Peoria Riverfront Market matches up to $25, and Gramm said the only stipulation is that the matched tokens be used on vegetables or fruit.
“So, it really helps you stretch your SNAP benefits,” Gramm said, “and then it also is good for the market because it keeps those dollars local.”
More: Looking for the scoop on Peoria restaurants? Sign up for PJStar Dining
Supporting other downtown businesses
Soulside Healing Arts announced it will be offering yoga on Saturday mornings ahead of the market.
While the Peoria Riverfront Market is offering a “record” number of vendors at its first day of the season, Gramm said visitors should check out other local shops and businesses, as well.
Restaurants such as Catrina's Express, Ardor Breads and Provisions and Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer also operate in the area.
“We do encourage our customers to take a look at the other businesses downtown,” Gramm said. “Maybe have lunch at one of the businesses down here or shop at RC Outfitters or just explore some of the other shops and restaurants downtown.”
Illinois farmers markets near me
Visit pjstar.com for a list of Illinois farmers markets around the Peoria-area.
Connect with Cassidy Waigand by emailing her at CWaigand@gannett.com or by following her on Twitter at @justxaxwriter.
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This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Illinois farmers markets 2023: Peoria Riverfront Market begins in May
