2024 Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Markets: Everything You Need to Know

The first Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market of the season is right around the corner! Here's a rundown of everything you need to know for the 2024 season:

What are the 2024 dates?

• May 25^th
• June 1^st
• June 15^th
• July 6^th
• July 20^th
• August 3^rd
• August 17^th
• September 21^st

What time are the markets?

Each market takes place on Saturday morning from 7:30 to noon.

How many vendors are there?

There are around 200 different vendors at the markets - you can check out a map of vendors for each date HERE.

What streets are closed off?

• 2nd Ave between 2nd St & 5th St
• 3rd Ave between 2nd St & 5th St
• 4th Ave between 2nd St & 5th St

Where do I park?

Anywhere outside of the market. Street parking is free on Saturday, but once the market gets busy, it may be easier to find parking inside of a ramp. Here are some of the ramps that you can access during the markets:

• Five Seasons Ramp - 1st Ave between 4th St & 5th St
• GTC Ramp - Enter from 5th Ave between 2nd St & 3rd St
• South Side Ramp - 2nd St between 6th Ave & 7th Ave
• Convention Center Ramp - 1st Ave between 3rd St & 4th St

Read more about parking in Downtown Cedar Rapids HERE.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance does encourage you to consider leaving them at home due to the large crowds. If you do choose to bring your pup, here are the rules about having them at the market:

• Pets must be on a leash no longer than three feet
• Pets must be sociable, under control, and well-behaved
• Pets must be kept away from produce, plants, and prepared food
• Pet owners must clean up after their pet

Can I smoke?

No. The Downtown Farmers Market is a smoke-free venue, so there is absolutely no smoking inside the barricades.

What happens if there's bad weather?

The market happens rain or shine, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather! If the weather is extremely severe, there is a rare chance that it could be cancelled. The website says, "you will find that information on social media, as well as local radio and television stations."

Do I need to bring anything?

A bag! There's no guarantee that all the vendors will have bags available, so bringing a reusable tote bag could be helpful. It might also be good to bring a little cash with you. I've never personally encountered a vendor that doesn't accept debit or credit cards, but you never know!

Is there a Market After Dark this year?

There sure is! The 2024 Market After Dark will take place August 24th from 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The Market After Dark only has 100 vendors, but also features lots of live entertainment, creative displays, and alcoholic beverages. It typically draws anywhere from 30,000 to 50,000 people.

For more information about the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Markets, you can check out the official website HERE.

Look for a list of Eastern Iowa farmers markets? You can see a full list for 2024 HERE!