By Sabrina Hilton and Matt Galle
Northside Farmers Market
On a beautiful Sunday morning in October, the Northside Farmers Market completed its 20th season. Over the years the market has strived to contribute to the distinct community, altruism and ingenuity of the Northside. The ending of the season also marks Matt and Sabrina’s eighth season as managers. We feel extremely lucky to have great support from our board of directors and close-knit community of volunteers.
Gaining experience over the years and support from our board has fostered the latitude for creativity. We took on a few new ventures this season. Throughout the spring, summer and fall, many long-time attendees recognized the growth in the variety of vendors and footprint. We successfully changed the layout of vendor stalls and were able to add several vendors in the center of the market. It was a great success and gives us more room to add new vendors in the 2025 season. We are consistently surprised by the talent and creativity of our neighbors as we get new applicants.
This season we also had programming from community organizations — such as Vilas Zoo, the Children’s Museum, a local scout troop, and Nettlewitch Herbs — with a focus on activities for our younger customers. We plan to build on the success of this venture and would like to welcome programs that support older adults in the community — such as the Aging and Disability Resource Center, NewBridge, Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging or Access to Independence — to set up information tables to inform older adults and those who love them of the great programming available to support their health and independence.
We wish all a peaceful winter and look forward to seeing everyone when the market returns in May 2025. Applications for 2025 can be expected in mid-March on our website (northside
farmersmarket.org).
