Farmers markets are more than just a place to find perfect blueberries or red, ripe tomatoes—they’re a place where we can engage with our local farmers and makers face to face, support our local economy, and gather as a community.

Downtown Bentonville Inc. announces the Bentonville Farmers Market has won a cash prize from Milwaukie-based grain company Bob’s Red Mill. The “Farmers Market Forever” national contest encouraged people to nominate their favorite farmers market to receive $5,000. Bentonville’s Farmers Market received multiple entries by Northwest Arkansas locals. Overall, 2,400 entries were received, and five markets were selected. 

Downtown Bentonville Inc. plans to use a portion of the $5,000 cash prize to reinvest in the farmers, makers, and vendors that make the Bentonville Farmers Market a lively, vibrant, inclusive community event on Thursdays and Saturdays.  The non-profit is planning a Shop the Block-style cash giveaway for Saturday, October 9th.  Previously, Downtown Bentonville Inc. hosted Shop the Block events, which offered $30 to registered shoppers to spend in downtown businesses, restaurants, and shops. The community is encouraged to follow facebook.com/downtownbentonville for Shop the Market registration opportunities and updates. 

Saturday Bentonville Farmers Market has experienced record-setting numbers in 2021, even with fewer vendors due to COVID-19 health guidelines. 

• In 2019, the market had 55 vendors and reported sales of $835,000 over a 28-week market session. 
• In 2020, the market had 35 vendors and sales were reported at $629,000 over 27-week market session. 
• In 2021, the market is up to nearly 50 vendors. In 14 weeks sales have already topped $525,000.

The Bentonville Farmers Market is held on Thursday evenings from 5pm to 8pm and Saturday mornings from 7:30am to 1:00pm from April through October. In addition, an online farmers market is available year-round via the Bentonville Farmers Market App, which can be downloaded for Apple and Android smartphones.