DES MOINES, Iowa — A popular downtown event will reach a significant milestone this summer, and a special celebration to honor the occasion is planned.

The Downtown Farmers’ Market on Court Avenue marks its 50th season this year. On Saturday, July 26th, the market will extend its hours and offer extra activities like giveaways, a market scavenger hunt, and live local musical performances on a mainstage set up outside the Historic Polk County Courthouse.

The market opens as normal at 7:00 a.m., and the vendors on Third Street and to the east will close at noon. More than 140 vendors will be part of the extended hours from noon to 3:30 p.m., west of Third Street.

“This is more than just a celebration, it’s a thank you to the community that has supported the Downtown Farmers’ Market for five decades,” said Elizabeth Wayers, Downtown Farmers’ Market Manager at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “It’s also a showcase of the region’s incredible talent and entrepreneurship. We’re proud to celebrate 50 seasons and can’t wait to see what’s next.”

More information about entertainment and programming for the event will be posted to the Market’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X.