Hardy farmers market lovers descended on Green City Market this brisk, sunny morning to welcome the arrival of our first outdoor farmers market of the year.
Between the Honey Crisp apples, kale and frosty temperatures, the market could have been mistaken for a late autumn event if it weren’t for the rows of asparagus, spring onions, chives, greens and even a small quantity of rhubarb that was snapped up well before 9 a.m. to my disappointment.
Farmers say the Midwest weather has not been kind to rhubarb this year, but if you arrive at Green City Market (on the south end of Lincoln Park) early on Saturday you might find some more at Ellis Farms. Vicki Westerhoff of Genesis Growers said that her rhubarb went kaput this year and she has replanted a new crop of it that will come up later in the season.
Still, for those who sought spring greens, baked goods, eggs, meat and catching up with old farmers market pals in the fresh air, there was plenty available.
Plus, the market gets an extra whiff of authenticity this week as it occupies the lot just across the street from the Farm in the Zoo. The market will stay there while construction finishes up in its usual spot just to the south, adding a, not unpleasant, but distinctly farmy aroma to the mix.
More upcoming early bird farmers markets include Green City Market again this Saturday, Daley Plaza Farmers Market
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opening Thursday May 12 and 61st Street Farmers Market this Saturday May 14.