Discover Fresh Food, Embrace Local Pride, and Celebrate Our Community

As a chef, there’s something special about this time of year, especially with the Old Town Farm and Art Market buzzing every Saturday. It feels a lot like Christmas, filled with excitement and fresh produce.

I recently visited the market to catch up with farmers and vendors who bring it to life in Wichita. My first stop was Tom from Meadowlark Farms. His big “PEACHES!” banner is impossible to ignore, and the sweet scent of fresh peaches draws you in.

“I’ve got delicious white peaches. In about a month, the yellow peaches will be ready—bigger and even sweeter,” Tom shared. The anticipation for the juicy yellow peaches is real!

Next, I found Troy from Elk Creek Farms in Chanute. His table was overflowing with fresh veggies: tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, peppers, cantaloupe, and watermelon. It’s a feast for the senses.

Then, I chatted with Dustin from Stone and Sparrow. He offers something unique—small-batch, locally milled flour. He, his wife, and their son travel from east of Emporia, balancing their weekends between Wichita and Lawrence.

“We mainly grow heirloom wheats. We just harvested Rouges de Bordeux, which works great for bread. There’s even a purple straw wheat that’s been around since the Revolutionary War,” Dustin explained. The history behind what he grows adds a special touch.

The market was full of classic Wichita charm—families, friends, kids, and even dogs enjoying the day together. It’s a vibrant community spot.

Before leaving, I caught up with Amy and Luke Snow, who organize the market. “The best part is seeing small businesses grow from just an idea to a thriving reality,” they said. Their passion shines through.

Every Saturday, the Old Town Market is all about fresh food, local pride, and community connection. It’s a beautiful reminder of the value of supporting local vendors and celebrating what our area has to offer.

According to a recent survey by the USDA, farmers’ markets contribute over $1 billion in sales annually across the U.S., a testament to the growing trend of supporting local agriculture. These markets not only provide fresh produce but also foster community relationships and promote healthier lifestyles.

Whether you’re just browsing or buying, there’s a sense of joy and connection at the Old Town Farm and Art Market. It’s truly a celebration of local flavors and the hard work that brings them to our tables.

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