The Lincoln Square Farmers Market will return to its original location at the parking lot at 2301 W. Leland Ave. in May, after spending two years at a temporary site due to construction, according to an April 1 announcement.
The move is significant for local residents and vendors, as the market is seen as a central part of community life and supports access to fresh food. The market season will begin on May 5 and run from 7 a.m. until noon on Tuesdays through November 18, and from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursdays through October.
This year’s market will feature more than fifty vendors offering seasonal produce, baked goods, and sustainably raised meats. A complete list of participating vendors will be available soon on the Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce website once finalized.
In recent years, improvements have been made around Western and Leland avenues as part of the area’s master plan developed in 2019. These upgrades include pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly road changes, improved Chicago Transit Authority infrastructure, and a new public plaza west of the farmers market lot.
The Link Match program is also returning this year to help more neighbors access fresh produce by matching Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits spent at the market. Last year saw a seven percent increase in Link Match redemptions with nearly $32,000 distributed directly to local vendors through SNAP and Link Match funds.
“The Lincoln Square Farmers Market is more than just a place to shop. It’s a cornerstone of our community’s health and inclusivity,” said Jeff Tabels, Director of Business Engagement for the chamber. “Returning to our Leland Avenue home after construction feels like the perfect way to kick off a year of growth.” Tabels added: “The seven-percent jump in Link Match usage we saw last year proves that our neighbors value fresh food and want to support the farmers who are the heart of our regional food system.”
Statewide Link Match redemptions for fruits and vegetables at farm-direct locations exceeded $922,000 last year; combined with brick-and-mortar locations across Illinois’ 157 sites, total program impact reached $2.25 million according to the chamber.
Matthew Ruffi, Senior Program Manager for Link Up Illinois said: “Our team at Link Up Illinois is thrilled to see the continued momentum at markets like Lincoln Square… By doubling the buying power of SNAP shoppers, we transform a ‘this OR that’ choice into a ‘this AND that’ joy. It’s a true win-win-win.”
