Morton Grove Farmers' Market Wraps Up 2013 Season, Looks Ahead

The Morton Grove Farmer's Market is wrapping up its season with a  Halloween costume contest on Sat. Oct. 19, and will be back with two indoor market days during the winter and then sail into the 2014 season in May.

On Oct. 19, the market will be open between 8 a.m. and noon at 6210 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

This volunteer-run community organization is concluding its fourth consecutive season since its creation in May 2010.  The launch of the Morton Grove Farmer's Market was backed by an ambitious goal. 

"We started it to bring the community of Morton Grove together around good food and healthier living," said Kristina Otte, one of the main organizers of the event. Affiliated with the Morton Grove Chamber of Commerce, the organization operates with volunteers providing a wide variety of fresh, locally-produced foods and products to Morton Grove and its neighboring communities.

Among the various vendors at the market, Tamales Express, a family-owned and operated business specializing in traditional, handmade Mexican-style tamales, provides an ethnic twist to the market. Every week, Tamales Express offers a different variety of tamales, ranging from Amish chicken, pork, sweet corn, poblano pepper, and more. 

According to the Morton Grove Farmers' Market website, "In 2011, the Farmers’ Market Coalition named the Morton Grove Farmers’ Market one of the best new community markets in the country." The Farmers' Market Coalition assists with the spread of markets throughout the U.S., helping farmers earn fair prices for the fruits of their labor by selling directly to consumers.

Although the season is coming to a close, "We are happy to report that we'll be at the same great spot next year, 6210 Dempster Street, thanks to our generous host, the Morton Grove Park District.  We'll have our popular winter markets too, Dec 7 and March 22 at the American Legion Memorial Civic Center, from 9am to 2pm both dates," Otte said.

In addition to the sale of vegetables, baked goods, arts and crafts, the market also provides a wide variety of entertainment and special events. Entertainment on Oct. 19 includes: Jim Cole, The Dynamics, Ryan from RC Juggles, and pumpkin decorating, while supplies last. More information in regards to this event is available at http://mgfarmersmarket.com