To Market

Sunflowers for sale at the Dane County Farmer's Market.
8/11/2018  dwm photo

My first stop was to get a cinnamon roll at a bakery stand on the corner of the Square closest to State Street.

The Farm Pride Bakery in Gay's Mill claims ownership of the best rolls.  I can't say they're wrong.

They offered frosted and not-frosted cinnamon rolls.  I went without frosting, because, you know, it was a really big roll.

Good thing the carbs kicked in fast, as it was a long walk around each side of Capitol Square.

Each side is two city blocks long.

Chefs from the restaurant Graze were out
early shopping the Farmer's Market. (dwm)

The Saturday Market on the Square is a must see event if you visit Madison and practically a requirement if you live here.

It's a busy place, you can expect to park a couple blocks away or use one of the downtown parking garages then walk to the Capitol.

Everyone walks counter-clockwise.  Rarely does someone walk upstream, and if they do it is probably because they are looking for someone.

There are fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and meats for sale.  The vendors come from all over.  I can only guess how early farmers making a two hour or longer drive have to leave home.

Madison adds its own flavor to the open air market place with political groups, candidates, and charities with their own stories to tell along the sidewalk.  They do not solicit, but are glad to talk if you approach their booth.

Wisconsin Colors Bucky looking over shoppers on the square.
8/11/2018  dwm photo

Just try to get there early if you want to shop quickly.  Everyone is walking the same direction and the sidewalk is only so wide, so bring plenty of patience.

It is a colorful collection of food.  It is also quite a group of people who love food and getting to speak with the people who brought it.

Lots of people are here every week to get fresh produce.  Others, like us, make it a few times a season for the experience.

You won't find anything quite like it, anywhere.