Starting on April 12, the Dane County Farmers’ Market will once again bring the Capitol Square to life on Saturday mornings for the 2025 season. As the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country, this beloved tradition showcases the best of Wisconsin’s agricultural offerings, from farm-fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to baked goods, flowers, and specialty products.

For locals and visitors alike, the market is more than just a place to shop—it’s an experience. Stroll the square, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, chat with local farmers, and savor the sights, smells, and flavors that make Madison unique. Whether you’re looking for fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or simply a lively way to start your weekend, the Dane County Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination.

There’s many ways of experiencing the market, but we thought we would release this helpful guide ahead of the market opening for the season:

Start your morning with brunch at CIRC. While there are many amazing restaurants serving brunch in Downtown Madison during the market, our own restaurant is something of a well-kept secret that flies under the radar. If you are looking to enjoy a meal before or after the market, restaurants and cafes may become crowded with a wait. However, CIRC can accommodate you with a reservation or walk-in with a spacious dining room and comfortable seating with an amazing brunch menu that includes Espresso French Toast and various spins on Eggs Benedict.

Have you ever heard of magic coffee? Yes, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to coffee shops downtown, including our own Starbucks just off the lobby. However, the iced coffee known as “magic coffee” served by Graze outside their patio is a delectably sweet, highly-caffeinated mixture of half-and-half, espresso, coffee, cinnamon, and brown sugar. We recommend grabbing a cup before you meander through the busy market as a little treat and pick-me-up to start your day.

Once on the square, you will see many different tents and tables from vendors and farmers from Dane County and the surrounding area filled with local seasonal produce, baked goods, flowers, specialty products, and more. Now, the variety will change with the seasons, but there are several favorite vendors you can count on being at the market in spring, summer, and fall.

Stella’s Bakery is one of the most popular tents at the market, where dozens of patrons will wait in line in dozens for their chance to get a fresh, warm loaf of Stella’s hot and spicy cheese bread. Stella’s also has a second stand with 10-star empanadas. Our marketing director, Joan, recommends the egg, cheese, and picante empanadas.

There are many different farms selling squeaky cheese curds, but we are partial to Farmer John’s and Murphy’s. You can find classic cheddar cheese curds, but also flavors like pizza, dill, garlic, spicy jalapeno, and more. 

Did you know that the state insect of Wisconsin is the Honey Bee? Well, it’s true, and for good reason. Wisconsin has a good honey industry, and you can find a few beekeepers selling honey products and beeswax at the market. Among them is The Bee Charmer, a woman-owned beekeeping business from southern Dane County, Wisconsin. They sell beeswax candles, raw honey, specialty honeys, classic wildflower honey, and more. 

If you enjoy a good pesto in the spring or summer, Renaissance Farms has some of the best, locally-made pesto sauces made from their homegrown ingredients. They have a classic sweet basil pesto, but also a unique peanut cilantro pesto amongst other kinds. 

There are many amazing bakeries present at the market year-round. Amanda in Human Resources recommends Yummee Treats Bakery. They make fantastic cream cheese-stuffed garlic bread, and are located in the big red tent on Caroll and Main across the street from Inn on the Park. 

Local jams and jellies are always a delicious staple in any Wisconsin pantry, but Land of O’s (based just outside of Cottage Grove) and their variety stand out amongst the stalls. Looking for a traditional strawberry jam? No problem. What about something with a twist, like an apple basil jelly? They have that too.

In the spring, there is not as much produce compared to the summer and fall seasons, however that doesn’t mean it is entirely absent! Attending the market in early springtime means finding plant starts for your garden in which you can grow your own food, hardy greens, strawberries, mushrooms, eggs, and fresh flowers.

In addition to everything available that is locally grown, local makers and artisans bring creations such as handspun yarn, handmade soaps, dried flower arrangements, and other crafted items.

We hope this guide inspires you to head down to the capitol square this season at one point or another. If you want to make a weekend of it, we have a Farmer’s Market Package! This includes accommodations for two for one night; an insulated Madison Concourse Hotel shopping bag; and $20 to use at CIRC, Starbucks, or The Bar.

The Dane County Farmer’s Market is more than just a place to buy fresh produce – it’s a vibrant hub of local culture, community connection, and sustainability. With its diverse array of vendors, unique offerings, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why this market is a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors alike. Make it a point to stop by and discover something new – there’s always something fresh and exciting waiting for you!