For more than 20 years, the Mentor Farmers Market has connected residents with local farmers, artisans, entertainers, and small businesses in a welcoming outdoor setting. The market returns this season on Fridays, June 12 through September 11, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Eleanor B. Garfield Park, 7967 Mentor Ave.
The market traces its roots to 2003, when it launched as the Old Village Market and operated once a month. Over the decades, it has evolved and relocated several times before finding its permanent home at Eleanor B. Garfield Park. In its earliest days, the market was held in the Little Mountain Farmers Market store parking lot at the corner of Mentor Avenue and Little Mountain Road. It later appeared on the lawn at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site and in the parking lot of the Mentor Municipal Center. It has since settled under the mature trees of Garfield Park, creating a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere for shoppers.
Today, the Mentor Farmers Market has grown far beyond a traditional farmers market. What began primarily as a place to purchase fresh produce has developed into a family-friendly community gathering featuring live entertainment, art demonstrations, local artisans, specialty food vendors, and unique shopping opportunities.
“We’ve evolved into almost a family festival atmosphere,” said market organizer Heather Kovacic. “Each week offers a different experience with entertainment, artists, crafters, and a variety of food and produce vendors.”
One of the market’s defining features is its commitment to supporting local farmers while maintaining a carefully curated mix of vendors in each category. This approach helps avoid oversaturation, supports vendor success, and ensures a diverse shopping experience for visitors.
Several longtime vendors have become staples of the market. Don Anna Farms has participated for more than 16 years and is known for its wide variety of homegrown produce. Sleeping Dragon Produce has been a favorite for more than a decade, offering unique products and seasonal specialties. Other longtime participants include Blade Runner Sharpening Services (12-plus years), Well Preserved Jams and Jellies (more than eight years), and Cecelia’s Sweet Delights (more than five years). Newer additions, such as The Farm at Dreamers Estate, continue to bring fresh energy with locally grown vegetables, plants, and herbs.
Visitors can expect more than 30 vendors on a typical market day, with attendance expanding to more than 50 during the popular Fantastic Friday events. Combined with live music, entertainment, and community activities, the market offers an experience that goes well beyond shopping for fresh produce.
As the Mentor Farmers Market enters another season, it continues to serve as a vibrant showcase for local agriculture, small businesses, and community connections — preserving the hometown atmosphere that has made it a beloved summer tradition for 23 years.
The city of Mentor thanks our sponsors for their support. The 2026 Mentor Farmers Market is presented by Cleveland Clinic; and supported by Canterbury House Direct Primary Care, KIA Ken Ganley of Mentor, Medical Mutual, Mimi Vanderhaven, Mutsko Insurance Services, Pella Windows, Renewal by Andersen, and Tour Lake County.
Learn more at www.mentorfarmersmarket.com.