Washington Farmers’ Market

Interested in becoming a Vendor or being a Guest?

Contact Sarah Grunewaldt, Vendor Relations Chair
Washington Farmers’ Market Advisory Board
washington.iamkt@gmail.com
651-707-3431

Bob Shepherd, Market Manager
319-458-9396

Thank you for an excellent 36th season! The Washington Farmers’ Market is looking forward to our 37th year of a true Growers market. We pride ourselves that our vendors make, bake, or grow all the products that they sell. If you’re interested in becoming a market vendor or highlighting your business or non-profit as a guest spotlight, please contact Bob Shepherd at 319-458-9396 or Sarah Grunewaldt at 651-707-3431.

The Market Advisory Board can be reached by email at washington.iamkt@gmail.com.

Frequently Asked Questions for Vendors:

• What products are allowed?
  • Products are listed out in our rules (see below). You are very likely to be approved if you make, bake, or grow your products yourself. Please see the rules for specific stipulations.
• The rules are from last year, are they accurate?
  • We update the rules annually following the Iowa Farmers Market Association annual conference. This is usually in February. We do our best to update them quickly, but please use the posted rules as a guide. We will post the updated rules when we have them, but they haven’t changed much in the past few seasons. If you have questions about the rules, feel free to contact us at washington.iamkt@gmail.com
• How much does a booth cost?
  • $5 per week for a non-electric spot
  • $10 per week for an electric spot.
    • We do offer yearly passes. Please see rules for additional information.
• How do I get a spot?
  • Contact us via email washington.iamkt@gmail.com to get product approval. Once you’re approved you can check in at your first market with the Information Table. The volunteers will get you an assigned space. This will be your spot week after week.
• What if I only want to come a couple of times?
  • Pay by the week, but know your spot may change. Just let the volunteers know your intentions.
• Is there a vendor form to fill out?
  • Nope, just email us to let us know you’re coming & get your products approved via email washington.iamkt@gmail.com.
• How big are the vendor booths?
  • Generally about 10×10, however there is flexibility for larger space needs. Just speak to a volunteer.
• What time is set up?
  • You may set up starting at 3 pm. Sales cannot begin until the bell at 5 pm.
    • Additionally, please unload & move your vehicle off the square to save parking for customers. Thursdays in downtown are very busy.
• Do I need a tent?
  • You may want one as a few of the mature trees have been removed in recent years. The Market doesn’t provide tables, chairs, or tents for our vendors.
• I own a food truck, how do I get on your featured vendors?
  • Contact washington.iamkt@gmail.com and note “Food Truck looking for Space” in the subject line. A volunteer will reach out.
• Do I need a food license?
  • Please check with the Rules & Washington County Environmental Health for more details 319-653-7782.
• I’d like to be a guest, how do I get a spot?
  • Email washington.iamkt@gmail.com with information about your organization & your preferred dates. You may pick up to 3 per year, 2 may be back-to-back weeks. This is free for nonprofits & community organizations. You may engage in a fundraiser for your organization i.e bake sales, fruit, raffles, etc. Please see the rules for more information.

RULES FOR 2024
Cottage Foods Guidance for Licensing

Senior Farmers’ Market Vouchers: Seniors who are 60 years or older with a household income less than $27,861 (household of 1) or $37,814 (household of 2) can receive $50 worth of farmers market vouchers. To enroll in the program, please contact Heritage Area Agency on Aging (319-398-7676) or Choices in Washington (319-591-8176).

Featured food trucks return to the Washington Farmers’ Market this season. If you have a food truck & would like to be featured, please contact washington.iamkt@gmail.com