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Downtown Winter Farmers' Market 2021 FAQs

What are the Winter Market dates and hours?

The 2022 Winter Market will take place on Saturday, Nov. 12 and Saturday, Dec. 3 outdoors along the streets of the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where is The Market located?

The Market is an open-air street market located in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Vendors will be set up outdoors on Court Avenue and adjacent side streets. For mapping purposes, use 300 Court Ave., Des Moines; however, this is not a mailing address.

What vendors and products will be at The Market?

The Winter Market provides local seasonal produce, meat, cheese, eggs, jam, jelly, salsa and many other varieties of farm food, as well as local artwork and a few food trucks with breakfast and lunch street food options.

Will there be music and live entertainment at The Market?

The Market will host entertainment and musical performances, family friendly activities and more. Stay tuned for a full Winter Market entertainment schedule.

Will The Market provide additional seating options?

There will be standing high-top tables and outdoor heaters at each Winter Market for patrons that will serve as quick warming stations.

Are dogs allowed at The Market?

The Winter Market takes place in the Historic Court District, which is the neighborhood of many Downtown residents.

Market management encourages pet owners to leave their dogs at home. If patrons do choose to bring their dogs, they are expected to act in a responsible pet-owner manner and adhere to these six rules to ensure a pleasant Market experience for all:

  • Dogs must be under control on a short leash (max. three-foot leash), and by the owner’s side always.
  • Dogs need to be kept away from produce, plants and food products. Dogs need to be courteous and able to socialize with people and other dogs.
  • Be understanding. Not everyone loves dogs, and some fear dogs.
  • The Winter Market operates under the City of Des Moines’ laws regarding pets, which include a leash law, cleanup of droppings, current tags and a current rabies certificate.
  • Bring doggy cleanup bags or use bags provided around The Winter Market located in dispensers on various light poles.

If I have a question at The Market, where can I find someone to ask?

Market staff members will be available at the Information Booth to answer Market-related questions. The Information Booth will be located on the corner of 3rd Street and Court Avenue. Market staff members will be available at the Information Booth to answer Market-related questions.

Where should I park?

Visitors have numerous options available adjacent to The Winter Market. Several free and paid parking meters, lots and garages are available on streets surrounding The Winter Market.

Please visit the Parking and Directions webpage here.

Patrons are also encouraged to park along the DART D-Line route. The D-Line runs from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Buses come every 10 minutes and are free to ride. The route map and more info can be found at ridedart.com/dline.

What if I am planning to make a large or heavy purchase at The Winter Market?

The Winter Market offers a free wagon lending program, The Fresh Pickings Wagon Valet powered by Iowa Food and Family Project, to help patrons tote cumbersome purchases to their vehicles. Wagon availability is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. If interested, stop by the Information Booth while visiting The Winter Market for more details or to borrow a wagon.

Will The Winter Market accommodate for winter weather?

The Winter Market is grateful for our farmers, food makers, bakers and artists. To ensure that all participating vendors are comfortable throughout the short season, we are making cold weather accommodations for our vendors. Each vendor will have their vehicle parked next to them, if needed so they can take a break from the cold.

Where can I find updates on delays or closures?

Check in on social media, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, for updates on weather cancellations and delays.