The Quad Cities are full of fall activities, but The Freight House Farmers’ Market holds a special place in my heart. Voted the #1 Farmers Market in Iowa in a nationwide contest held by America’s Farmland Trust, this market is as big as it seems.
This indoor and outdoor farmers market located in Davenport, Iowa, is full of fall activities. Serving products ranging from pumpkin bread to wind chimes, over 120 contracted vendors are offered a chance to market their creations in a family-friendly area. Each time I go, I am welcomed by kind shop owners and can’t help but spend my savings. After talking to Missy Carter, the Operations Manager of the market, I learned so much about the process of opening and maintaining such a powerful community. Carter said, “The market started as two small groups of farmers and bakers that were operating in the same lot on the same days. These two groups came together and formed the Freight House Farmers’ Market as we know it today. They formed the non-profit entity in February 2009.” As with most non-profits, the market started small and supported small farmers, growers, and makers. Growing to 120 contracted vendors and about 100 “drop-in” vendors, the community has expanded drastically in the 14 years they have been open. “We have made lasting relationships with many like-minded groups and businesses in our community that help support our mission,” said Carter.
As October comes to an end, The Freight House Market has worked hard to put on fun fall activities. Partnering with the City of Davenport, the market hosted its “Fright House After Dark” every Friday in October from 6 to 9 p.m. Continuing into November, the group has its annual fall festival, November 4th and 5th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the full summer outdoor season will wrap up on October 29th, the indoor market is open year-round.
One thing stays true throughout the year, the strength of the community. When asked about her favorite part of the market, Carter said, “My favorite part of the market is meeting and interacting with so many visitors to the market, both locals and tourists. It is an amazing place to relax, enjoy the riverfront, and meet up to support local small businesses.” If you find yourself yearning for a cup of coffee, fall festivities, or even something to get out of the house, visit The Freight House Market. Anything and everything you could ever want will be there.