Saturday morning Omaha Farmers Market Photo courtesy Omaha Farmers Market

Omaha Farmers Market

The Omaha Farmers Market began at the turn of the century, occupying a small lot on the corner of 11th and Jackson Streets. It was here, until 1964, that the local growers could sell their projects, which ranged from fruits and vegetables to herbs and honey. After a hiatus of 30 years, the Omaha Farmers Market was revived in 1994 on the very corner lot where the original market has thrived so many years before. Fresh locally grown produce, baked goods and flowers are once again available each Saturday morning from May to October. A variety of special events dot the annual calendar, including the season opening "Old Market in Bloom," a floral explosion of color and fragrance that welcomes visitors to the Market. Four special Saturdays are designated as "Bake Sale Saturdays," offering local not-for-profit organizations and clubs the opportunity to join the festivities while they raise funds for their individual causes.

The Omaha Farmers Market averages over 50 stalls of merchandise vendors a week, and attracts over 2,5000 visitors each Saturday from May to October. The typical shopper considers quality first (98%) and variety second (85%) as the two most important attributes of the Market. This community tradition provides a valuable sales outlet for local growers, as well a wonderful opportunity for city-dwellers to remember and appreciate Nebraska's agricultural heritage. The Market has just enjoyed its sixth successful season of supporting area producers and promoting downtown Omaha.

Project documentation comprises a page of text and a page of photos (4 on a page); a marketing and communications report on the 1998 season of the Omaha's Farmers Market; a Season End Vendor Survey for the 1998 season; newspaper coverage, and a brochure.

Originally submitted by: J. Robert Kerrey, Senator.

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