Brittany Robbins from Aurora spent Saturday morning at the Aurora Farmers Market, picking up last-minute produce and saying farewell to familiar merchants. “I’m always sad when the farmers market season ends,” Brittany expressed while completing her purchases at 65 S. Water St. She added, “It’s a place we enjoy with the kids. We come here often.” Brittany bought hummus from her favorite shop and coffee for herself. “We’ve been attending for years, getting hummus, vegetables, and enjoying live music,” she shared.
Saturday marked the end of the 115th year of Illinois’ longest-running farmers market. Thousands gathered throughout late spring and summer to shop from over 80 vendors. Market manager Felicia Freitag called the season successful. “Traffic increased significantly this year. Our recent numbers surpassed previous years,” Felicia noted. The community appreciated various activities, adding, “Next season, we aim to use the entire parking area. Bringing back a large-scale farmer is also a priority, responding to feedback for more produce.”
The season’s finale included a fall celebration with mini pumpkins for children, a petting zoo, and vendor trick-or-treating. Brittany Robbins, with her husband Steve and kids, enjoyed the event. Steve appreciated being outdoors, saying, “It’s great meeting different vendors.”
Jeannie Norris, a regular walker to the market, lamented its closure. “I wish it lasted till October’s end,” she remarked while tasting cheese. Jeannie enjoys seeing both familiar and new faces at the market.
Nancy Sawyer, who resides in Aurora Township, attended the last day of the market and reminisced about its original location at the Metra train station. She values fresh, local produce. “Next week, I might explore farmstands outside the city. I prefer them over grocery stores,” Nancy mentioned. She bought jalapeno peppers, saying, “They were $5 a box. I’ll make poppers and salsa.”
Doug Harrington, a 20-year attendee, praised the vendors. “It’s lasted over a century due to high-quality products,” Doug stated. He frequently purchases honey, fruits, vegetables, and breads, commending the cheese vendors. Doug plans to stock up now that the market has closed.
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