2021 Marketplace Is In Full Swing

In early May, Sweet Water Foundation launched its Seedling Market, providing seedlings to neighbors, gardners, and partners across the City of Chicago. As the unseasonably warm weather continued, and the two hoop houses still full of produce from the winter, Sweet Water Foundation shifted from seedling distribution to launch its Weekly Farmer’s Markets with locally grown produce earlier than previous years. Every Friday from 12:00-2:00, new and returning visitors stop by RND Park and Meeting House at The Commonwealth for seedlings, sunflowers, and produce. The Farmer’s Markets have become more than just a random market. They have turned into family play dates, reunions, and introductions to The Commonwealth. Read on to learn more about the weekly market.

Every Friday, the Sweet Water Foundation Core Team, Urban Ecology Global Fellows, and Apprentices quickly transform RND Park and Meeting House into a vibrant marketplace for the community. First, tables, tents, and furniture are set up to activate the 5 parcel park. Then, fresh produce from the Community Farm is harvested and put on display to bring the market to life. Local vendors also set up displays with fresh lemonade, hand carved wood products, and local honey for market goers to support. 

The market has evolved beyond just a place where produce and local goods are available. It has become a place where children and their families, neighbors, artists, homeschoolers, and young people come to play, connect with each other, and imagine possibilities for their own communities. 

After markets, all leftover produce and any abundance from the Community Farm is distributed to nursing home residents, local community-based organizations working to address food insecurity, and neighbors who were not able to visit the market. 

Check out the Weekly Farmer’s Market every Friday from 12:00 - 2:00 pm at RND Park and Meeting House.

We look forward to seeing you at the market for fresh produce and connections!