Dane County is home to the nation's largest producers-only farmers' market, the Dane County Farmers' Market. Held on Saturday mornings from mid-April to mid-November on the grounds surrounding the Wisconsin State Capitol, it hosts over 275 vendors and spans a little over a half a mile. 

But for those seeking a smaller, more intimate farmers market experience, Dane County has plenty to offer. These smaller markets are a great place to stock up on farm-fresh food and artisan goods right in your own neighborhood. 

Here are a few of my favorites:

• Fitchburg Center Farmers Market - 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg, WI 53711
  The outdoor Fitchburg Center Farmers Market takes place at the Agora Pavilion every Thursday from 3 pm to 6 pm until October 26. This popular market draws about 25 vendors from all over Southern Wisconsin. You can shop for produce, flowers, baked goods, and more. There are often special events on the third Thursday of each month, including some fantastic live music.
   
• Monona Farmers Market - 400 E Broadway, Monona, WI 53716
  Shop over 30 vendors at the Monona Farmers Market. You'll find the usual fresh fruit and veggies, but you'll also find cheese, meat, eggs, coffee, popcorn, salsas, soaps, and more. The event takes place every Sunday through October from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm at Ahuska Park. Enjoy live music from 10 am to noon.
  
  
• Oregon Farmers Market - 131 W Richards Rd, Oregon, WI 53575
  This popular market features a rotating selection of vendors, so you never know what you'll find. The selection of fresh seafood, maple syrup, and cheese are three of the top attractions at the Oregon Farmers Market. The market runs outdoors in the parking lot of Dorn True Value Hardware through the end of October.
  
  
• Hilldale Farmers Market - 702 N Midvale Blvd, Madison, WI 53705
  This Madison farmers market takes place in the parking lot behind L.L. Bean on Segoe Road. With almost 40 vendors, it's a popular place to stock up on some of the best Wisconsin cheese, produce, meat, eggs, and even gourmet pet food. The Hilldale Farmers Market runs every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm through October 28. The market is also dog-friendly!
  
  
• Northside Farmers Market - 2901 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704
  The Northside Farmers Market has been providing Madison with fresh, delicious food and locally-crafted products like soaps and art pieces for 18 years. This market runs Sundays from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm through October 29 in Sherman Plaza. In addition to dozens of vendors, you'll also find games, events, live music, and food carts. The market is also conveniently located near some great Madison homes for sale and is dog-friendly.
  
  
• Eastside Farmers Market - 202 S Ingersoll St, Madison, WI 53703
  The Eastside Farmers Market takes place at McPike Park on Tuesdays from 4 pm to 7 pm until October 31. With over 15 farmers from across the region, you can find all your favorite fresh produce. The market also hosts many local bands, so you can turn your shopping trip into a fun summer evening.

If you love buying local, you'll love visiting these local farmers markets. For more information on Dane County living, get in touch.