Market Watch: Holland Farmers Market

👋 Hey, it's Justin. On a recent trip to southwest Michigan, I made a quick stop at the renowned farmers market in Holland.

The spot: Unlike markets in Chicago that take over parks or parking lots, this market has a permanent location.

• The City of Holland opens the 8th Street Marketplace every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-2pm.

The vibe: Hundreds of people, both locals and tourists, spread out and leisurely walk the corridor.

• It was packed but easy to maneuver, especially because pets aren't allowed.

The offerings: The extensive market features everything from organic vegetables to fresh fish from the Great Lakes.

• Visser Farms, in business since 1902, has great produce like German Butterball potatoes and various root vegetables.
• Bowerman Blueberries has been a Holland favorite since 1954, with fresh produce and pastries like muffins and pies — and a blueberry doughnut, of course.
• Great Lakes Fish features smoked salmon, whitefish and trout caught in the Upper Peninsula. It also has fish pate.

The prices: Because there are so many produce farms in southwest Michigan, fruits and veggies here tend to be less expensive than at big Chicago markets.

• Fish is sold by the pound (smoked lake trout: $17/lb).
• Produce is mixed and matched by boxes, baskets or bunches (3 for $15).
• Bread and bakery items go for $5-15.

What's more: When you're done with the market, head downtown and walk around. You'll be surprised who you can find just sitting on random park benches.