Founded in 1995 at a location near the Transportation Depot at the intersection of Broadway and Orange Street, the Historic Downtown Farmers’ Market has become a mainstay for many Hot Springs natives and a special attraction for the many visitors of the area. In 2006, Hot Springs was the recipient of a USDA Farmers Market Promotion Grant which began the planning of a permanent, open-air pavilion as a home for the Market. In May of 2010, the market opened its permanent open-air pavilion located at 121 Orange Street, and has since become a leading Farmers’ Market, receiving a great deal of state and national recognition.
The market operates year round, with a “Summer Market” season of May through October on Saturdays from 7:00 to 12:00 p.m. or until produce runs out. The smaller “Winter Market” operates on Saturdays during the months of November through April from 9:00 to 12:00 p.m. Plenty of free parking is available at both the North and South entrances of the Market. The Friends of the Farmers Market volunteers provide the management and promotion of the Farmers Market.
At the market, customers form close relationships with the farmers who have grown their food. With the local food and organic food movements, the Farmers’ Market has gained even more popularity as a place to purchase quality, home-grown produce. The Farmers’ Market also offers fresh herbs, plants, flowers, eggs, meat products, fresh-baked breads, desserts, local honey, jams, jellies, spreads and more! The market has become a “front porch” of sorts for many Hot Springs residents and visitors who gather, visit, sip coffee, and savor the live local music on Saturday mornings in addition to doing their weekly produce shopping. Special Events such as “Shop with the Chef”, “The Health and Wellness Day”, and “Day at the Farm” feature children’s activities, nutrition information and additional educational opportunities for the public. Local musicians, dancers, and performers generously share their talents at the market, giving it a festival atmosphere. Thanks to many willing partners and sponsors, the market is able to host a variety of educational and entertaining events.