Throughout a lifetime of travel, one enduring lesson stands out: the true character of a destination reveals itself at the local farmers market. To really understand a place, just watch how the locals connect and enjoy fresh, locally grown food and handmade treasures.
Last summer, I discovered the Bayside Farmers Market, where I found a surprising abundance of fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and unique handmade crafts. This market confirmed what I had suspected all along: St. Ignace is awesome! Keep reading to discover what awaits you at the Farmers Market this summer.
Discover Fresh Delights at the Bayside Farmers Market
St. Ignace is perfect in the summer, and nothing captures that seasonal spirit quite like the Bayside Farmers Market!
Fresh produce and handmade goods are offered every Thursday from 3-7 pm, along State Street. You won’t be able to resist the bucolic charm and natural beauty of the location, with the Mighty Mac tantalizingly near and Lake Huron as the gorgeous backdrop.
At the Bayside Farmers Market, you’ll find table after table piled high with fresh, seasonal produce from local farms, including wonderful lettuce mixes and juicy tomatoes. If you’re searching for fresh vegetables, handmade treasures, or perhaps that massive jug of maple syrup for your morning pancakes, you will find it in St. Ignace! You won’t want to miss Grandpappy’s Greens, a great booth offering delectable, locally-grown microgreens that will add a nutritious boost to your market experience.
For those with a sweet tooth, the market offers a variety of delectable baked goods, flavorful jams, and jellies. If you are seeking a new scent in your life try one of the many different handcrafted soaps. And if you need a caffeine fix, find the Drummond Island Coffee Company booth for a taste of their finest brews.
Exploring Downtown St. Ignace
If you ask me, one of the very best things about the St. Ignace market is the afternoon timing—-it’s mellow in the afternoon. Plus, you have until 3 pm to explore the area beforehand, and you won’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn just to score your market bounty.
I can think of no better way to begin your Farmers Market Day than with a hearty breakfast. The Wild Blueberry Breakfast and Bakery is a family-owned business that was established in 2022. This bakery specializes in breakfasts—everything from egg entrees to pancakes, waffles, and French toast. Some of their best-selling items include blueberry donuts (made fresh daily), blueberry muffins, and really tasty cinnamon rolls!
If you are regular to the UP, you have no doubt tasted the world-famous pastie. But, have you ever tried a breakfast pastie? Head on over to The Mackinaw Pastie Shop to try the breakfast pastie, which features a tempting combination of sausage, egg, cheese, potato, onion, and rutabaga, baked into a scrumptious golden crust.
Take a leisurely stroll along the famous Huron Boardwalk, and meander through Downtown St. Ignace’s eclectic mix of shops. Make sure to visit the Wawatam Lighthouse and maybe stop by the Village Inn when dinner time rolls around. Their Shrimp Iggy is out of this world!
Super-charge your evening with ice cream at the Mackinac Double Decker at the Mackinac Grille & Patio Bar. I can attest to the deliciousness of the Dark Blackberry Fudge. Get yourself a cone, then dance the evening away at Music by the Bay. From July to August, there will be live music every night from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at American Legion Park.
Summer Evenings in St Ignace
St. Ignace has evening programs every night throughout the summer. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a music aficionado, or just looking to unwind on the beach, there’s something for everyone. And with so many accommodation options, your stay is sure to be both comfortable and enjoyable.
Request your Visitors Guide today, then start planning your farmers market fun in St. Ignace—where summer awaits!
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