Nothing says springtime in Madison quite like the Dane County Farmers’ Market. The 2024 season kicked off April 13 and City Cast Madison recently caught up with DCFM manager Jamie Bugel to talk about what’s new at the market and share some tips and tricks to help you navigate Square like a pro on Saturday mornings.
When’s the Best Time to Shop?
As they say, the early bird gets the worm. If it’s your first time shopping at the market, Bugel recommends getting there before 9 a.m.
“I know that's not always possible, but try to come before 9 a.m., do a lap and take photos so you can look back and be like, ‘Oh right, this thing looked good,’ or ‘They had asparagus this week, maybe it's not too late to get it next week.’ And that kind of helps you ground yourself in what is actually available on the Square seasonally,” she said.
Also, no pets are allowed at the market (unless they’re service animals, of course).
Where Should You Park?
Bugel recommends any of the city’s downtown garages. There are several within a block of the Capitol Square.
Beyond cars, biking or taking the bus are always great options.
Get To Know the Vendors
DCFM is a producers only market, which means a couple of things. First, everything sold at the market is produced or made by the folks running the stands. No re-sales allowed!
Being a producer only market also means you can truly get to know the people who grow and raise your food. Not sure if something is in season? Just ask!
“[The products are] so fresh, and you know it hasn't traveled more than however many miles just to stay in the state, which is also great,” Bugel said.
Vendors don’t always set up in the exact same spot week after week but many end up setting up on the same side of the Square from week to week.
Cash or Card?
The farmers market used to be a notorious cash-only destination but the times have changed. Some vendors still only deal in cash but many will accept credit or debit cards as well as Venmo payment. Still, Bugel recommends coming with cash no matter what.
DCFM also always accepts EBT/FoodShare.
Need Recipe Inspo?
DCFM published a cookbook in 2023 full of recipes that can be crafted from ingredients bought straight from the market.
Clockwise or Counter Clockwise?
Contrary to popular belief, the flow of pedestrian traffic isn’t enforced in any way at DCFM. You can walk in any which way you want. But locals will tell you counter clockwise is the real way to navigate the market.
