2024 Ravinia Farmers Market Season Opens June 5 in Highland Park
Live Music, Local Vendors, Giveaways, and a Customer Appreciation Day to Highlight Opening The Ravinia Farmers Market (RFM) opens for its 46th season on Wednesday, June 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jens Jensen Park in Highland Park. Early birds can shop with select vendors starting at 7 a.m. This year’s opening day is set to be a joyful celebration featuring live acoustic music, a special Customer Appreciation Day with organic and natural product giveaways and exciting weekly prize drawings, including free tickets to the Ravinia Festival. The June 5 drawing will feature two free lawn tickets to see James Taylor & His All-Star Band on Sunday, June 9, compliments of Ravinia Festival. The RFM is renowned for showcasing the finest local and organic produce, market specialty items and artisan products from independent local farmers, producers and community businesses. From fresh fruits and vegetables to artisan foods, beautiful plants and flowers, natural skincare products and unique handmade items, every visit promises new discoveries and delightful treats. Marketgoers can easily pick up all they’ll need for weekly meals, Ravinia picnics and more. “Since 2020, the Ravinia Neighbors Association (www.ravinianeighbors.org) has graciously been the Host Sponsor of the RFM, which allows the weekly event to have non-profit status. This alliance continues the mission to bring together the community in the Ravinia District,” says market manager and Highland Park resident Ed Kugler, who has been managing the market since 2016. This season, Kugler has curated an impressive lineup, retaining beloved vendors from previous years while welcoming many new faces. In addition, the market will feature a variety of new offerings this season, including more vendors providing grab-and-go breakfast and lunch selections. Another highlight of the season will be the second annual Taste of Ravinia, All Day Market & Sale, scheduled for August 7, a not-to-be-missed celebration of local flavors and community spirit. This year introduces the new Ravinia Farmers Market Artist in Residency program, showcasing local singer-songwriter Pierce Crask, who will perform live Americana and Roots music each week from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Additionally, there will be regular performances from other talented Chicago-area artists from 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m., thanks to sponsorship from the Highland Park Community Foundation (www.hpcfil.org ) and Life Rhythms (www.LifeRythms.com). Come join us at the Ravinia Farmers Market for a wonderful season of fresh, locally grown produce, unique artisan products, and a true sense of community. For more information, please visit www.raviniafarmersmarket.com.
