Downtown Louisville is known for its variety of unique museums, performing arts, bourbon, and concerts – but perhaps a lack of grocery and fresh food options. But a new and exciting venture is about to take root: a downtown farmers market.
Fourth Street Live!, Louisville Downtown Partnership, and Louisville Grows have partnered to bring a farmers market to the heart of downtown starting Wednesday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market will run every Wednesday until October 31.
“A farmers market at Fourth Street Live! with fresh, local produce is a welcome addition to the downtown community. It no doubt will be patronized by professionals and visitors, as well as by the growing number of downtown residents,” said Rebecca Matheny, executive director, Louisville Downtown Partnership.
Booths will be set up along the street in the heart of Fourth Street Live!. Vendors, farmers, and producers will all be present to sell their fresh produce, meat, cut flowers, and products sourced from local Kentucky farmers. All participating vendors will be accepting Kentucky Double Dollars and SNAP. To become a vendor, contact asatterfield@4thstlive.com.
As the only midday and midweek market in town, this offers the perfect opportunity for those in the area — downtown residents as well as office tenants — to stop by and shop for farm-fresh products.
The success of a number of farmers markets across the city inspired the downtown corridor to host its own. Organizers look at it as a phenomenal opportunity to support the community and buy locally.
“Contrary to popular belief, downtown is a food desert; there really isn’t anywhere to buy fresh produce,” said Ked Stanfield, executive director at Louisville Grows. “The city needs more farmers markets, and we need more in West Louisville — so this is a step in the right direction.”
Mayor Greg Fischer will be present on May 9 to welcome the market’s opening, show support, and discuss further details.
Free parking will also be available in the Live! parking garage (adjacent to Fourth Street Live! on Fifth Street between Muhammad Ali Boulevard and Liberty Street) during the Farmer’s Market hours.
