If you want tomatoes that taste like sunshine, peaches that drip juice down your chin, and bread baked that morning, West Monroe and Monroe have you covered. These two communities take their farmers’ markets seriously, and that means plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to stock up on local flavor all week long.
West Monroe Farmers’ Market at Seventh Square
The West Monroe Farmers’ Market has opened its 2025 season with a lineup designed to keep kitchens stocked and bellies happy. Located at 1700 N. 7th Street, the market sits right in Seventh Square, a hub that includes The Rec, West Ouachita Senior Center, The Pavilion, and West Ouachita Public Transit.
This market is open Monday through Saturday, so there’s no need to wait until the weekend to grab fresh produce. Early risers will love the weekday access, and families can swing by after school to grab something fresh for dinner. Expect rows of seasonal vegetables, fruits, herbs, and plenty of handcrafted goods made by local vendors.
One of the most exciting parts of the season is Market on the Square, a festive series held each Saturday from June through October. These special days attract additional vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. It’s more than just shopping. It’s a chance to taste local fare straight from the truck window, enjoy live community energy, and stock up for the week ahead, all in one stop.
For more details on vendor schedules and events, you can contact the City of West Monroe at (318) 322-2203. If you’re planning a weekend trip or just want to experience the energy of a community gathering, Market on the Square is a must.
Monroe Farmers’ Market Downtown
Just across the Ouachita River, the Monroe Farmers’ Market is also in full swing for 2025. This market gives shoppers access to locally grown produce harvested from farms across Northeast Louisiana. Here you’ll find rows of crisp greens, buckets of squash, and fragrant herbs, each picked by the hands that tended them.
The Monroe Farmers’ Market opens four mornings a week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon. If you’re a morning person, you’ll love arriving as the sun peeks over the horizon with stalls already buzzing with customers. While West Monroe’s market keeps longer hours, Monroe’s version rewards early birds with the best picks while it’s still cool outside.
The location in downtown Monroe brings a touch of historic charm to the experience. While you shop, you can chat with local farmers about their crops, pick up homemade jams, or try baked goods that still carry the warmth of the oven. This isn’t grab-and-go shopping. It’s the kind of place where the seller knows exactly which field your watermelon came from.
Whether you’re crossing the river to Monroe or strolling through the Seventh Square in West Monroe, you’ll discover vendors who care deeply about their work. Expect tables heaped with:
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Fresh fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, okra, peppers, cucumbers, and sweet corn
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Local honey perfect for sweetening tea or drizzling over biscuits
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Homemade jams and preserves that capture the flavor of Louisiana seasons
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Baked goods ranging from fluffy bread loaves to specialty pies
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Handcrafted items such as soaps, candles, and seasonal crafts
In the summer, both markets shine with watermelon, peaches, and blueberries. As fall approaches, you’ll start to spot pumpkins, gourds, and greens that signal gumbo season is around the corner.
Why Farmers’ Markets Matter Here
Shopping at either of these markets is about more than filling a tote bag. It’s about supporting local growers and small businesses who keep agriculture alive in the region. Every tomato or jar of jam purchased sends money right back into the community. Vendors often share recipes, growing tips, or stories from their farms, making each trip feel like more than a transaction.
Both Monroe and West Monroe have built their markets into gathering spots. Locals show up not just for lettuce but for conversations and music. Visitors get to experience the charm of Louisiana food culture firsthand, without needing a reservation or an event ticket.
For the best results, bring small bills or cash, though some vendors also accept cards. Reusable shopping bags are your friend, especially if you plan to stock up on bigger items like melons or multiple bags of produce.
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West Monroe Farmers Market: Open Monday through Saturday at 1700 N. 7th Street. Look for Market on the Square Saturdays from June to October for extra vendors, food trucks, and events. Call (318) 322-2203 for details.
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Monroe Farmers Market: Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon in downtown Monroe. Arrive early for the freshest selections.
Both markets are worth visiting, and many locals split their shopping between them depending on convenience and timing. Whether you’re planning weekend meals, need produce midweek, or just want to stroll through stalls with a coffee in hand, these two markets make it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Sources: cityofwestmonroe.com, knoe.com
Header Image Source: Mark Dalton
