Published April 14, 2025

2nd Street Market opens outdoor farmers market, adds evening events on select Thursdays this spring

The grand opening of the 2nd Street Market’s outdoor farmers market is Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will continue operation through the harvest season, which ends in late October.

The outdoor farmers market will feature more than 30 vendors offering fresh, in-season produce, artisan wares, specialty foods and more. In addition, more than 50 permanent vendors are inside the 2nd Street Market, located at 600 E. Second St. in downtown Dayton.

“I think many people may feel the need to take a closer look at their food budgets while also trying to maintain a healthy, balanced diet,” said Market Manager Lynda Suda. “You’ll find incredibly fresh produce at farmers markets and these items can often be healthier, more affordable and grown by your neighbors—which supports our local economy.”

The outdoor farmers market will be open during the Market’s regular hours of operation: Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition to weekend hours, the indoor Market vendors operate on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The outdoor farmers market is held rain or shine and will only close in the event of severe weather. Check the Market’s Facebook page for updates at facebook.com/2ndStreetMarket.

New this warm weather season, the 2nd Street Market will host activities on select Thursday evenings each month, from 5 to 8 p.m. Activities include the Culture Kitchen series, themed dining opportunities that celebrate the cultural culinary diversity among the Market’s vendors. Additionally, Sunset at the Market events will be held on the third Thursday of each month and feature live music, demonstrations and extended shopping hours. Programs through July are:

The 2nd Street Market is also part of the Downtown Dayton Designated Outdoor Refreshment Footprint (DORA) and guests are permitted to enjoy DORA beverages during its designated hours. For additional information visit metroparks.org/localfood.

In alignment with Five Rivers MetroParks’ conservation mission, the 2nd Street Market also hosts many programs and events that empower Market visitors to adopt sustainable practices at home, from gardening to sourcing locally made goods.

For information on additional programs and events at the Market, visit metroparks.org/localfood.

Fresh food equity

For those who utilize EBT/SNAP benefits, many indoor and outdoor vendors accept EBT/SNAP benefits, as well as Produce Perks. The exchange center can be found at the west end of the Market.

“Many folks are looking to stretch their dollars further when it comes to food budgets,” said Suda. “Produce Perks is a matching program that provides a dollar-for-dollar match—up to $25 per day—for to those who use their benefits at the Market. We’re incredibly proud to be able to offer these programs – it’s a win-win for our community and local growers.”

The 2nd Street Market is a facility of Five Rivers MetroParks and supports its mission to protect the region’s natural heritage by providing the community with access to fresh, local food, which is often healthier and less taxing on the environment. Additionally, shopping from local small businesses means food and products are transported shorter distances, further reducing shoppers’ carbon footprint.

Learn more about the 2nd Street Market at metroparks.org/localfood and sign up for its monthly email newsletter at metroparks.org/newsletter.

 

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