Our Mission

To create a setting that embodies the values and replicates the rural environment of Northern Indiana where families, as producers, consumers and entrepreneurs can jointly experience an opportunity for their business enterprise to expand and grow.

Goals and Objectives

Create a market that sells locally grown, produced and created produce and products.

Attract, promote and support small entrepreneurs to create employment and increase income for farmers, small businesses, individuals and families.

 

Raising an American Legend

Now complete, the Midwest's newest and largest farmers market, the American Countryside® Farmers Market is already breaking other world records.  Check out our Photo Gallery and past Press Releases to see our progress!

View the article explaining how this structure will be the world's largest wood-peg structure, and see the video of the US Farm Report on location, taken the summer of 2006 that documents the beginning of this monumental structure.

US Farm Report

 

 

Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9am - 5pm


New Hours Begin May 1st!

Wednesday 9am - 5pm, Thursday 9am - 7pm,

Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm

Open for Breakfast at 8am...all merchants open at 9am...
Toll free 877- 782-7386  
Directions



Fresh Facts

  • Located on 15 acres on the south side of the US 20-Bypass, at the corner of State Road 19 and County Road 26 in Elkhart County, Indiana
  • Total floor area: 51,452 square feet on two stories

Barn Raising

 

                       A place like no other!

 

The tradition of small and medium-sized family farms runs deep in this area. From the fields of Northern Indiana to the orchards and vineyards of Southwest Michigan, fresh fruits and vegetables are produced in abundance. In addition, local artisans and craftsmen produce high-quality products in the tradition of their immigrant ancestors. The Market provides businesses an opportunity to bring their wares directly to market in an attractive and exciting setting.

Midwest Farmers Market - A cross section sketch

Vegetables & Fruit

The heart of any farmers market is the fresh produce that it provides to the discriminating customer. Our Market is no exception. Various vendors provide the freshest possible connection between the producer and the consumer. From the gardens of Michigan and Indiana there comes an abundance of seasonal offerings. Potatoes, carrots, sweet corn, squash, pumpkins, melons, rhubarb, asparagus, broccoli, beans, peas, organic mushrooms and tomatoes all add to the color and health of every meal. 

Southwestern Michigan and northern Indiana are at the center of a wonderful Midwestern fruit belt. Apples, peaches, cherries, and pears are grown along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Grapes, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries grow in abundance in both states. The Michiana area produces some of the finest, sweetest fruits and berries in the country. 

Fresh Flowers and Gardens

In the spring the outside of the Market is beautiful with hanging baskets and plants.  The quality and enjoyment is appreciated here but can also enhance your personal garden and property. 

Spices and Scents

The Market air is adrift with a variety of both common and unique spices and scents, homemade potpourri and fragrant oils.

Food and More Food

Our Dining Court is an ideal gathering place to quench thirst and hunger any time of the day.  It is a convenient place to meet friends or business acquaintences for breakfast, lunch with the girls or relax after the day's shopping experience. For the family or heartier appetites there is an abundance of prepared food - buffalo burgers, home baked bread, fish, and chicken as well as a variety of sweet delights to be enjoyed at the Market or taken home to enjoy later.

In addition to the Dining Court, food vendors are located throughout the Market. Soft pretzels, ice cream, fudge; and kettle corn are just a few of the many delicious items that are be available throughout the Market from a variety of vendors.

Demonstration Kitchen

A state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen is one of the most unique aspects of the American Countryside Farmers Market.  The kitchen is on the second floor and will host a variety of cooking classes and chefs.  Competitions and demonstrations will enhance your Market experience as well.  The Countryside Kitchen is also available for private parties and events.  See the Countryside Kitchen page for more information.

Founders Beam

Within the Market, on the second floor, is a special and significant point of interest – the founders beam. In 2006 the Market founders decided to fell a 100 year old tree. The founders gathered on a private farm in St. Joseph County, Indiana. The four investors – farmer Kenny BeMiller, architect LeRoy Troyer, developer and builder, Art Moser and attorney Mick Tuesley gathered with their families to watch as a 120-foot-tall white oak fell to the ground.

The white oak was sent to a local saw mill and the resulting 24-foot long support beam now is designated as the founders beam on the second floor of the Market.

Artisans

The second floor of the Market and many of the outdoor booths feature artisans who design and personally create the items they sell.  In most booths, the artist is present to speak with you and explain the process of their creations.  Many of them are Amish craftsmen who have long been noted for their exquisite carpentry in producing cabinetry, fine furniture and toys. Whether your taste runs to dolls, doilies, jewelry, wood, pottery or purses you are sure to find something interesting created by the American Countryside Farmers Market master craftsmen.

Entertainment

The Market itself is a wonderful entertainment venue with its sights, sounds and smells, including festivals, carriage rides, petting farm animals, and music for many special weekly events.  For details, please check the Events page.