Over 500 small businesses call the Eastern Market District their home. Nestled in the center, the Eastern Market Partnership is one of the biggest and longest-running public markets in the country, and embodies so much more than just a farmers market. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, they are on a mission to support a healthier, wealthier, and happier Detroit through their markets, outreach, and programs.
Check out the list below of 5 things you should know about this impactful organization!
1) Have you been to the Tuesday or Sunday market?
You probably know Eastern Market for its bustling Saturday market where thousands of people come through for their weekly groceries along with first time visitors from around the world. But, did you know about the other markets?
On Sundays from 10am-4pm, the market leans on the artsy side with dozens of craft vendors in a street sale set up. This market day is a great opportunity for gift shopping and discovering new local makers. Plus, most Sundays will feature an additional event happening in one of the sheds, such as these upcoming events.
Running from 9am-3pm, the Tuesday market offers a more intimate market experience, with more time to interact with vendors and fewer visitors. However, there’s still plenty to peruse! Additionally, this market offers free Yoga (11am-12pm) and Zumba (1-2pm) classes.
Each of these markets celebrates the bounty and creativity of regional vendors. Take a peek to see which vendors attend the market and learn about area businesses here.
2) Did you know that you can order online?
Skip the lines and place your grocery order in advance for pick-up at Shed 5! Just order online Monday through Wednesday for convenient, drive-thru contactless pickup between 9:30am-2:30pm on Saturday. Not only does this give you the chance to plan ahead, but you can even use your SNAP and Double UP Food Bucks online. Moreover, EBT users can pick up Michigan Farm to Family CSA box brimming with fresh produce each week for only $5! Learn more about this partnership with the Michigan Fitness Foundation here.
See what’s in season and available at Eastern Market Online this week here.
3) Stay in your Neighborhood with Detroit Community Markets!
Did you know that there are 15 neighborhood markets throughout Detroit? These markets offer fresh, affordable produce to their community through farm stands, markets, and food box programs. Many of these local markets accept SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, WIC Project Fresh, and Fresh Prescription (a fruit and vegetable prescription program just for Detroiters!). Find your closest Community Market at https://www.detroitmarkets.org/
The Eastern Market works with these markets to reach every corner of their city and beyond!
4) Do you have a food business idea?
The Eastern Market is home to an incubator kitchen to help local entrepreneurs grow their business from the start. The Detroit Kitchen Connect offers a licensed professional kitchen, technical and financial assistance, and access to high quality locally-grown foods. Participants in the program have access to a variety of commercial kitchen spaces and resources.
Currently, the Eastern Market is also developing a Food Business Accelerator Kitchen where more established businesses can share space and packing equipment. More details to come!
5) Grow Eastern Market: From Dirt to Dock to Door
Not only is the Eastern Market dedicated to connecting vendors to their community, but also to other businesses throughout the city. Through their Grow Eastern Market program, they forge relationships between growers and chefs or grocers. This wholesale option streamlines the processes for larger businesses to purchase directly from smaller growers and producers throughout Detroit.
See which farms and businesses Grow Eastern Market is already working with here: https://easternmarket.org/programs/groweasternmarket
The Eastern Market has been around since 1891 and will continue supporting their district and their city. Take a peek at their 2025 vision to see what they have in mind for the future.
What do you love about the Eastern Market?
Emma Beauchamp is the Communications Manager for Taste the Local Difference.
All Photos Courtesy of the Eastern Market Facebook page.