DBQ & Galena Farmer’s Markets Deliver Lots of Fresh Fun [VIDEO]

Growing up in Iowa, Saturday mornings were always enjoyable at Dubuque's Farmer's Market. Mom would offer a choice to go along or stay home. I would likely have just finished delivering the neighborhood newspapers, so naturally, I'd typically stay home for it was prime time for the sports page or cartoon-watching. I had my priorities.

But inevitably, a food cornucopia of fresh picked Iowa sweet corn, watermelons, strawberries, blueberries, fresh veggies, and the occasional baked goods would arrive through the front door. I learned early on that the best stuff comes from the Farmer's Market, not the Supermarket.

Therefore, I've done my best to incorporate the Farmer's Market into my adult routine. As much for the lively characters as for the colorful produce.

Other than a Farmer's Market, where else can you meander for free, eat great, freshly prepared food, hear live music, interact with and buy directly from the farmer, maker or baker?

 

Dubuque and Galena Farmer's Markets operate Saturdays from 7 am to Noon, Rain or Shine!

I now interview and feature Laura Bertjens and Susie Droessler of Dubuque and Galena markets each Saturday on the Good Morning Rodeo Weekend Edition. They both maintain pride in their market associations, products, and vendors, and rightfully so.

Hear a recent interview with Galena Market Manager Susie Droessler.

Historic Dubuque holds many distinct titles, including Iowa's Oldest City (est. 1833) and Farmer's Market (est. 1845).

The Dubuque Farmer's Market is large enough to cover several blocks around the Historic City Hall, which was once a working part of the market. In 1858, the market was inside the recently completed City Hall, modeled after Boston's Faneuil Hall. The first floor was designed to be a market divided by stalls for displaying and selling produce. Windows made it easy for farmers to back up and unload their wagons.

Today, the Dubuque Market commands several city blocks, over 120 vendors, food trucks, and multiple live music locations.

The Galena Market was first at the Old Market House on Commerce Street and is now a block away at Galena City Hall.

Down to just two vendors some years back, it grew one by one. Finally, the few remaining vendors were motivated to succeed and grow, and today, the Galena Market is home to 15 essential vendors.

Discover the creative artisan weavers at Galena's Tangled Web

 

While the Dubuque market feels like a fun vibrant urban scene, Galena's market feels like you're attending a good old-fashioned neighborhood gathering.

 

Watch the Artsy and Crafty Mom & Daughter of the Tangled Web 

The Mother and Daugther team of Yvonne and Catherine of the Tangled Web are exclusive to the Galena Farmer's Market. They've each been weaving and working in wool and fabrics for over thirty years, and their artistry and craftsmanship are stunning.

From wool hats to shawls to woven rugs to fanciful characters, the ladies have perfected their craft of spinning wool into artistic masterpieces.

I've grown to appreciate Farmer's Markets even more through the years. I have learned they are ubiquitous and play a significant role in the country's fabric.

While I could try and wax on poetically about this market or that one, I've mostly come to appreciate that Farmer's Markets are ultimately about community building and making connections. It's also an excellent way for people to build a business around a creative passion, which I wholeheartedly support.