Guide to downtown Overland Park Farmers Market: Favorite vendors, what and when to buy

The Overland Park Farmers’ Market can be overwhelming to the newbie or casual shopper.

Every Saturday, customers crowd under and around the covered pavilion downtown for vegetables, fruit, teas, baked goods, fresh flowers, food trucks and much more.

To help you make the most of your experience, we’ve compiled a list of must-know farmers market tips and tricks. You’ll be shopping like a pro in no time.

When’s it open and who are the vendors?

The market is open from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at 7950 Marty St. Starting June 7, it will also be open on Wednesdays for those same hours.

Find a complete list of vendors on the market’s website, opkansas.org/recreation-fun/farmers-market. Click “Vendor List.”

Some of this year’s vendors sell baked goods like Luca Bagel Co. and Frannie Franks Coffee Cakes, spices and condiments like Mythos Sauce Co. and Bazaar Spice, and meat like Bauman’s Mobile Meat Market and Five Mile Farms.

What are shoppers’ favorite spots?

Many regular shoppers make a point to visit their favorite stands every Saturday.

Colin and Sarah Walsh enjoyed an early lunch at Taco Naco as the line grew for the specialty tacos and burritos. It also has a restaurant nearby, at 8220 Metcalf Ave.

“The market is a cool place to come, people watch and get some lettuce,” Colin said.

Joy Thomas enjoys buying eggs and produce from Lawrence-based Two Sisters Farm.

“If you want eggs, you need to come early or order ahead,” Thomas advised.

Jamie Burel hit the market with a group of relatives who all recommended the jars of Jordy’s Honey, which has a storefront at 14054 W. 107th St. in Lenexa.

What’s in season?

In spring, expect to buy the best asparagus, arugula, carrots, mushrooms, spinach and strawberries.

Shoppers looking for apples, melons, cabbage, corn and green beans should wait for early summer. By late summer, farmers will begin to offer blueberries, peaches, plums, squash and tomatoes.

Farmers peddle cauliflower, lettuce, onions, pumpkins and sweet potatoes in the fall.

For a full list of what’s in season, go to the market’s website and click “Buyer’s Guide.”

Where should I park?

With public street parking along Foster and Marty streets and Santa Fe and Overland Park drives, shoppers should be able to find a space, though they may have to park further away during busier hours.

Get a map of downtown Overland Park’s public parking places by going to opkansas.org and clicking “About OP,” “Maps” and then “Downtown OP Parking Map.”

What are some places to shop nearby?

When you’re finished perusing the fruits and vegetables, head over to the many stores in downtown Overland Park. Here’s a small sampling:

Kate Smith Soiree is a popular spot for pastries, cakes and other confections and coffee in an artful atmosphere.

The Old Mango is a home goods and design store with an earthy, modern twist. The furniture and textiles appeal to an array of generations.

Ensemble sells women’s clothing and accessories for work or a day off.

The new Tilted Door Gallery and Gifts sells pieces for the bargain shopper and art collector alike.

Is the market expanding?

The city of Overland Park is planning its Farmers Market Improvement Project, adding space for more vendors. It hopes to give the market a more open, spacious feel by using an adjacent lot at 7910 Marty St.

Any other tips?

Come early. By late morning, popular vendors may have already sold out.

Dogs aren’t allowed. Only service animals are allowed during market hours.

Hit the ATM. While most stands accept debit or credit cards, some are cash only.