Winter Farmers Markets in Mid-Michigan: Eat Seasonally, Shop Locally

When the fields freeze and the snow piles high, it can be easy to think Michigan's growing season is over. But for those who know where to look, local food is still thriving. Winter farmers markets, cold-storage crops, and greenhouse greens are keeping Mid-Michigan's local food economy alive and there is no better time to shop seasonally and support your community.

Eating seasonally isn't just about freshness; it's about connection. When you choose locally grown food, you help farmers sustain their businesses year-round, reduce transportation emissions, and enjoy food that is naturally suited to Michigan's seasons. In the winter, that means crisp storage apples, earthy root vegetables, and cozy kitchen staples that keep you nourished while the snow falls.

Seasonal eating celebrates the flavor of the moment. Winter produce like carrots, beets, cabbage, kale, potatoes, and squash are nutrient-dense, flavorful, and versatile. These crops are grown for our climate and stored with care by farmers who have perfected the art of keeping Michigan's bounty available all year. Greenhouse growers also bring fresh greens, lettuce, and microgreens to market, adding a burst of color and vitality to winter meals.

Here is a guide to what is in season in Mid-Michigan right now:

Fruits: Apples, pears

Vegetables: Beets, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, celery, garlic, greens, kale, lettuce, onions, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, sprouts, sweet potatoes, swiss chard, turnips, winter squash

Other Local Goods: Herbs, honey, maple syrup, mushrooms, and preserved foods like jams, pickles, sauces, and sauerkraut

The Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) provides a Find a Farmers Market map that makes it easy to locate winter market options near you. For those in the St. Johns (48879) area, nearby Ingham County winter markets are great places to explore:

Holt Farmers Market

2150 Cedar Street, Delhi Charter Township, MI

Saturdays | 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.

A vibrant indoor market offering local produce, baked goods, meats, honey, and handmade goods year-round.

Meridian Township Farmers Market

1995 Central Park Drive, Meridian Charter Township, MI

1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays | 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. (January-April)

Offers a cozy winter market experience featuring area farmers, greenhouse greens, root crops, and artisan foods.

Allen Farmers Market

1611 East Kalamazoo Street, Lansing, MI

Indoor Market | October-May 3 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.

Held inside the Allen Market Place, this long-standing community hub provides access to fresh produce, honey, mushrooms, local eggs, and prepared foods during Michigan€™s colder months.

Across Michigan, winter markets like these create opportunities for connections, farmers can share what they have grown, and shoppers can take home the taste of the season. Buying local food in winter keeps money circulating in our communities and helps small farms thrive through the cold months.

So as you plan your meals this winter, look to the local harvest. Roast root vegetables, bake with maple syrup, drizzle local honey over warm bread, or make a big pot of soup with Michigan-grown garlic and greens. Seasonal eating is a reminder that good food does not have to come from far away. Sometimes, it's been right here all along, waiting for you at your neighborhood market.

Find your local market: mifma.org/find-a-farmers-market