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DALLAS - Dallas Park and Recreation leaders have announced several initiatives to expand year-round programming and improve neighborhood access at Fair Park. Among new events is the Fair Park Farmers Market that will bring fresh food to the park every Sunday starting March 1.
Good Local Markets kicks off its18th season with the Fair Park Farmers Market at 3535 Grand Avenue near the Leonhardt Lagoon. Marketgoers can expect 60 to nearly 100 vendors offering fresh produce, locally made products, and specialty goods. The market is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. March through July. It is closed during the State Fair and resumes operations later in the year.
Dallas City Council member Adam Bazaldua expressed excitement for the market’s impact on the community. "I can’t state enough how much I’m personally looking forward to seeing a recurring Farmers Market at Fair Park. There’s so much demand in South Dallas for fresh foods that I’m confident the Fair Park Farmers Market will become a staple in the routine of both South Dallas neighbors and visitors alike. I’m elated to see our parks department working hard to create consistent programming for Fair Park. When the community Park is complete, what better place will there be to grab a fresh meal and make lifelong memories?”
As part of the city’s ongoing efforts to reconnect Fair Park to surrounding communities, Arun Agarwal, President, Dallas Park and Recreation board, highlighted the value of partnerships that support families and local businesses.
“Through our partnership with Good Local Markets, the market is a critical resource for families, providing them access to fresh, healthy food while supporting area farmers and small businesses. It’s good for our community and the local economy. When cities and nonprofits work together, we create opportunities, make the economy strong, and keep Fair Park a place where everyone is welcome.”
For nearly 20 years, Good Local Markets has operated as a producer-only nonprofit farmers market focused on strengthening North Texas’ local food economy. Every participating vendor is carefully vetted, and all products are grown, raised, baked, cooked, or handcrafted by the person selling them.
“Our local food system is rebuilding and strengthening,” said Lisset Bell, Executive Director of Good Local Markets. “When shoppers show up consistently at producer-only markets, they’re directly helping small growers and makers thrive.”
“We’re focused on keeping the park open and active all year long and making it easier for our communities to come in. With new programming, Fair Park is a lively space where everyone can have fun and create new memories. We will continue to invest in safety and infrastructure improvements so that Fair Park is accessible and inviting for visitors,” said John D. Jenkins, Director, Dallas Park and Recreation Department.
He said the market is the first of many great things to come to Fair Park, adding that new events will include a monthly outdoor movie series, a collaboration with Sunny South Dallas Food Park, and signature programming such as the Easter Egg Hunt at Corona/Cotton Bowl Plaza on April 4. A rotating lineup of cultural festivals, fitness classes, and live music pop-ups are planned throughout the summer.
Giving communities in the park’s immediate vicinity direct access to Fair Park is a priority, Jenkins said. The Gurley Avenue Gate will be opened between the Jubilee Park neighborhoods and Fair Park, a change that will let residents walk into the park without traveling around the perimeter to find other entrances.
Last year, the City of Dallas took over operations of Fair Park by ending its contract with the non-profit Fair Park First and the venue management company OVG360. Since then, Jenkins said the department’s goal is to look for opportunities to attract more events and visitors.
“These initiatives will push Fair Park forward and enhance the experience for everyone who visits,” Jenkins said. “The city is excited about what’s going here and we want visitors to know that there are family-and kid-friendly activities happening in a fun and safe space. There’s something for everyone at Fair Park and at Dallas parks and recreational venues across the city.”
Farmers Market Photos: Click here.
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