From Pumpkins to Poinsettias: The Market Announces October Hours Plus 20 Years of Winter Market Magic
GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Oct. 1, 2025) – The Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health will begin its October hours this Saturday, shifting from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. – Noon for the final four weeks of the outdoor season. The later start gives vendors more time in the daylight to prepare their stands.
“As autumn sets in, The Market has everything from sweet potatoes, squash and apples to fall-themed baked goods and treats,” said Elizabeth Weyers, Downtown Farmers’ Market Manager. “October is such a vibrant time of year at The Market, and we encourage everyone to make the most of these next four Saturdays outdoors while continuing to support local vendors.”
In addition, the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market presented by Prairie Meadows will return for its 20th season Friday, Nov. 21 – Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, offering a premiere shopping experience in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.
Held indoors at the Iowa Events Center, Hall C of the EMC Expo Center, The Winter Market is a one-stop destination to stock up on seasonal and festive favorites. Attendees can browse late-season produce, baked goods, artisan items and more.
2025 Winter Market Hours:
· Friday, Nov. 21: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
· Saturday, Nov. 22: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
· Sunday, Nov. 23: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
“As we celebrate the 20th season of the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market, we’re proud to see how this event has become a treasured holiday tradition for our region,” said Weyers. “The Winter Market is a special opportunity for people to shop local, gather with friends and family and experience the festive spirit of the holidays while supporting small businesses across our region.”
“We are honored to support the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market as it celebrates this remarkable 20-year milestone,” said Julie Stewart, COO of Prairie Meadows. “This event is more than a market, it’s a celebration of community, wellness and togetherness. It’s a tradition that brings joy while encouraging people to support small businesses and enjoy fresh, local products.”
The Downtown Farmers’ Market, presented by UnityPoint Health, and the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market, presented by Prairie Meadows, are free and open to the public. Learn more about both of them including vendor announcements and programming updates at The Market website.
About the Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday morning May – October in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines. The Market also produces the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market in November. Find more information at desmoinesfarmersmarket.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/DowntownFarmersMarket and on Twitter and Instagram at @dtfarmersmarket. Learn more at desmoinesfarmersmarket.com.
About Downtown DSM, Inc.
Downtown DSM, Inc. is part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership and is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). A strong region needs a strong Downtown. Downtown DSM, Inc. leads efforts to drive development, placemaking and events in Downtown DSM. It promotes Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking. The Downtown Events Group enhances the vibrancy of Downtown DSM through the creation, elevation and activation of arts, culture and humanities events and community placemaking. Learn more at downtowndsmusa.com.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves 12 counties in Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth and talent development to advance quality of life in DSM with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.