Broad Ripple Farmers’ Market – An Evolution through Changes in Location

This drawing looks east from the steps of the Indianapolis Art Center toward the Monon Trail, This trail is a pathway for runners and bikers and provides access to the farmers’ market. Parking and access for automobile traffic exists to the south. Also to the south, exist several shops and restaurants that are visited by many farmers’ market customers. The farmer’s tents gravitate toward the eastern border of trees and Monon Trail where foot traffic is the heaviest. Live music often plays as people walk about the Indianapolis Art Center parking lot eating baked goods and talking to friends.

This farmers’ market began in the early 1990’s in Indianapolis’ north side. This farmers’ market is an example of one that has changed locations many times in its growth. In at least four progressively larger locations this farmers’ market has grown to support its growing number of vendors and customers. It is currently located in the parking lot of the Indianapolis Art Center. Prior to this year, it was located in the LOR Corporation Parking lot across on Broad Ripple Avenue across the street from Broad Ripple High School. It also existed in two other parking lots prior to this.

It takes place Saturday mornings from 8am to 11am. This space is adjacent to the Monon Trail, a popular bike and pedestrian corridor through Indianapolis. It is used by many customers to get to that farmers’ market. Brad Hopper, Market Manager and Executive Director of the Broad Ripple Village stated that the goal of this market is to bring local organic produce to the Broad Ripple area (personal communication, November 12, 2004).

The farmers are charged $100/booth/year or $25 for a single day rental. The money goes toward promotion and insurance. There are about 30 vendors. Market guidelines state that products must be grown in-state. Market guidelines state that products cannot be resold. Products do not have to have organic or natural certification. This market is run by the Broad Ripple Village Association. No extended season exists.