Racine & Me: Racine Farmers Market on the Lake to open in May!
RACINE, WIS (CBS 58) -- The NEW Racine Farmers Market on the Lake Opens May 9 at Festival Park. Something fresh is coming to Racine’s lakefront this spring. The NEW Racine Farmers Market on the Lake launches Saturday, May 9, 2026, bringing local farmers, artisans, food, music, and community together every Saturday at Festival Park.
Running May through October from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the market will feature 60+ regional vendors offering farm-fresh produce, eggs, cheeses, baked breads, artisan foods, flowers, and handcrafted goods—all set against the spectacular backdrop of Lake Michigan.
“This is a true farmers market,” said Dawn Carrillo, Market Manager. “There’s no reselling. You’ll meet the farmer who picked the vegetables that very morning and be the first to enjoy produce as it comes into season. All the vendors are food related, with the addition of 2 different crafters each week”
But the Racine Farmers Market on the Lake is designed to be much more than a place to shop—it’s a place to gather.
Families can enjoy Sprouts aids activities, interactive booths from local businesses and nonprofits, and community participation from city departments, schools, and youth organizations.
Highlights include:
Kids Coins, sponsored by Educators Credit Union, giving every child ages 5–12 a $2 token to purchase their own fresh produce and learn healthy shopping habits.
The Taste It Tent, sponsored by Martin Law Office, where visitors can sample fresh foods before they buy.
Live music under the big tent, sponsored by Double Tree by Hilton, featuring local artists each week.
Hot food vendors and cold drinks, perfect for enjoying lunch while overlooking Racine’s beautiful lakefront.
A cash bar with rotating drink specials for visitors looking to relax and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.
Cooking demonstrations by local chefs. Olde Madrid will demo in-season products and feature them at the restaurant that week.
The market also places a strong focus on fresh food access. Through the Wisconsin FoodShare program, SNAP-eligible families can receive a free $20 match when they shop at the market—helping stretch food budgets while increasing access to healthy, locally grown food.
“Our goal is to create more than just a market,” Carrillo said. “It’s a gathering place where the community comes together to support local farmers, small businesses, and each other—while enjoying everything Racine’s lakefront has to offer.”
Market Details
Name: Racine Farmers Market on the Lake
Location: Festival Park, Racine
Season: Saturdays, May–October
Hours: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Admission: Free and open to the public
For additional information, vendor inquiries, or partnership opportunities, visit:
About the Racine Farmers Market on the Lake
The Racine Farmers Market on the Lake is a city-supported community initiative dedicated to promoting local agriculture, supporting small businesses, and enriching Racine’s cultural and economic landscape. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the market provides residents and visitors with a vibrant destination to experience fresh, locally grown food and celebrate the best of Racine’s community.