The Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market stands as a vibrant cornerstone of the community, a place where the bounty of Arizona’s local growers and the creativity of its artisan food producers come together. As the desert sun climbs higher, the market adapts, offering a unique and refreshing way to experience local flavors and connect with the heart of Scottsdale.
Summer 2025 promises another season of fresh finds, lively atmosphere, and special events that make a Saturday morning visit an essential Scottsdale experience. This guide will navigate you through everything you need to know to make the most of the market during its summer schedule.
Summer 2025 Schedule & Hours: Catch the Morning Cool
To make the most of the cooler morning temperatures, the Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market adjusts its hours for the summer months. In June 2025, visitors can explore the market’s offerings every Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. This early start is a welcome adjustment, allowing shoppers and vendors alike to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere before the peak heat of the Arizona summer day sets in.
The confirmed Saturday dates for June 2025 are:
- June 7, 2025
- June 14, 2025
- June 21, 2025
- June 28, 2025
It’s worth noting the market’s seasonal rhythm: operations typically run from October through April with longer hours (8 a.m. – 1 p.m.), transitioning to slightly shorter hours in May (8 a.m. – 12 p.m.), before adopting the earliest start time in June. This thoughtful scheduling underscores a commitment to providing a comfortable experience for all.
Location: The Heart of Old Town
The Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market is conveniently situated at Brown Ave., Scottsdale, AZ. This places it right in the public parking lot between 1st and 2nd Streets, directly across from The Mission restaurant, making it an accessible and familiar landmark within the bustling Old Town district.
What to Expect: The Summer Bounty
Even in the heart of summer, the market buzzes with activity, showcasing the resilience and diversity of Arizona’s agricultural community. With over 100 local growers and specialty food producers participating, the market has been a thriving hub since its establishment in 2009.
Vendor Profile: A Feast for the Senses
Visitors can anticipate a delightful array of products. The emphasis is firmly on “food & farming only,” ensuring an authentic market experience. Expect to find:
- Fresh, Locally Grown Produce: A wide variety of organic and pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, often picked just days or hours before reaching your basket.
- Seasonal Specialties: While apples and cider are noted as seasonal specialties, the summer months bring their own unique offerings.
- Farm-Fresh Meats and Dairy: Natural pork, beef, fish, and free-range eggs from Arizona growers are common finds, alongside artisanal cheeses.
- Artisan Baked Goods and Prepared Foods: Freshly baked breads, jams, tamales, and other specialty food items provide delicious ready-to-eat options or pantry staples.
- Flowers: Brighten your home with locally grown flowers.
The market prides itself on connecting consumers directly with the people who grow and make their food, fostering a down-to-earth, communal atmosphere.
June’s Seasonal Delights: Arizona’s Summer Harvest
While specific vendor offerings can vary week by week, Arizona’s early June harvest typically includes a wonderful selection of fruits and vegetables. Based on regional availability, marketgoers might find:
- Fruits: Apricots (which ripen on the tree and become softer, not necessarily more flavorful, after picking), blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cantaloupe (look for one with no nicks and a pleasant smell at the blossom end), cherries, figs (select soft but not mushy fruit), grapes, loquats, and various other melons.
- Vegetables: Cabbage (firm, tight heads are best), carrots (available in many colors), chives, corn (look for firm, plump ears), cucumbers (should be firm), garlic and garlic scapes, green beans (should be snappy), and ground cherries. Leafy greens like lamb’s quarters might also be available. Tomatoes and sweet peppers are also Arizona seasonal staples around this time.
The opportunity to purchase such fresh produce directly supports local farmers and often means enjoying varieties and flavors not commonly found in larger grocery stores.
Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market: “Breakfast at the Market” & June Days Integration
June 2025 at the Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market is set to be particularly engaging, thanks to its integration with the city-wide “June Days” celebration. A highlight is “Breakfast at the Market,” scheduled every Saturday in June (June 7, 14, 21, and 28) from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the market’s location, Brown Ave. This free-to-attend event invites guests to “rise, shine and explore incredible vendors offering a variety of breakfast foods and artisan items”.
The experience will be further enhanced by live musical performances throughout the month, featuring artists such as Ed Halmstead, Lindsey Vogt, Christopher Lawrie, and Ben Reneer. This transforms a regular market trip into a more festive and leisurely morning outing.
This “Breakfast at the Market” initiative beautifully positions the farmers market as an ideal launchpad for a full day of exploring other “June Days” activities happening throughout Old Town Scottsdale. “June Days” itself is a month-long festival (June 1st – 30th) designed to showcase the vibrancy of Scottsdale’s Old Town with daily experiences ranging from wine tastings and art exhibits to yoga mornings and stadium tours.
The market, with its early hours and special breakfast focus, allows visitors to soak in local culture and flavors before venturing out to other scheduled events like morning yoga at the Scottsdale Civic Center (June 7th, 8 a.m.) or “Stories & Sweets” at the Scottsdale Community Design Studio (Tuesdays in June, 6:30 p.m.). This synergy creates a compelling reason to make Old Town Scottsdale a prime destination on summer Saturdays.
Navigating Your Visit: Parking & Transportation
Getting to the Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market is relatively straightforward, with options for both driving and public transport.
Parking: Ample and Free
One of the conveniences of visiting the market is the availability of free parking. The market itself is held in a public parking lot on Brown Ave. between 1st and 2nd Streets. Scottsdale’s Old Town, in general, is known for its accessible and free parking options, including numerous public parking lots and garages. Street parking is also available, typically with a three-hour limit. Given Old Town’s compact and walkable nature, parking in any of the nearby lots or garages means you won’t be too far from the market and other attractions.
While parking is generally plentiful, it’s worth noting that the city has considered plans to add more levels to the parking structure on Brown Avenue where the market is held. Such construction could, in the future, necessitate a temporary relocation for the market, though current information for Summer 2025 indicates the market will be at its usual Brown Avenue location.
Public Transportation: Options to Consider
For those preferring public transit, Scottsdale offers several services.
- Scottsdale Trolley: The Scottsdale’s Old Town Trolley system provides fare-free service on three fixed routes: 68th/Camelback (68CM), Miller/Hayden (MLHD), and Mustang (MSTG), connecting to various points of interest in Old Town, including shopping and dining areas. The trolleys generally run every 20 minutes. However, a crucial detail for Saturday marketgoers is that the primary trolley service hours are listed as Monday – Friday from 5:45 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. While some sources mention an “Old Town Trolley” as a community circulator without specifying its schedule, and others suggest using the trolley for Old Town generally, the explicit Monday-Friday schedule for the main routes (68CM, MLHD, MSTG) is prominent.
- Valley Metro Bus Service: Valley Metro provides regional bus services with connections in Scottsdale. Several routes service the Old Town Scottsdale area.
- Route 72 (Scottsdale Rd/Rural Rd): This is a major north-south route along Scottsdale Road. It has stops at key intersections like Scottsdale Rd & Camelback Rd and Scottsdale Rd & Indian School Rd, placing passengers within a reasonable walking distance of the market area. This route offers 10-minute frequency between Camelback and the Tempe Transportation Center during certain times. Route 41 (Indian School Rd): Travels east-west along Indian School Road, intersecting with Scottsdale Road and other north-south streets like Hayden Rd and Miller Rd, providing access points to Old Town. Route 50 (Camelback Rd): Another key east-west route that crosses Scottsdale Road, offering access to the northern parts of Old Town. Route 81 (Hayden Rd/McClintock Dr): Runs north-south along Hayden Road, which is east of the immediate market area but still provides access to Old Town.
Getting to Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market (3806 N. Brown Ave.)
| Mode | Details | Key Routes/Stops for Market Vicinity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Parking | Free public parking lots & garages in Old Town; street parking (often 3-hour limit) | Parking lot at Brown Ave. between 1st & 2nd Sts.; various garages on 2nd St., 3rd Ave. | Arrive early for best spots, especially on market days. |
| Scottsdale Trolley | Fare-free service; 3 main routes (68CM, MLHD, MSTG) | MLHD & 68CM routes have stops near Old Town (e.g., Indian School Rd & Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale Rd & Stetson Dr) | Crucial: Main service is Mon-Fri. Verify Saturday operation for any Old Town specific circulators. |
| Valley Metro Bus | Regional bus service | Route 72: Stops on Scottsdale Rd (e.g., at Indian School Rd, Camelback Rd). Route 41: Stops on Indian School Rd. Route 50: Stops on Camelback Rd. | Reliable Saturday option. Check specific stop locations and schedules on Valley Metro website. |
This layered accessibility, combining ample free parking with public transit options, makes reaching the market convenient. However, the nuance regarding Saturday trolley service means visitors intending to use it should perform due diligence by checking updated schedules closer to their visit.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Market Day in Summer
A summer visit to the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market is a delightful experience, and a little preparation can make it even more enjoyable, especially given the Arizona climate.
Beat the Heat: The Early Bird Prevails
The single most important piece of advice for a summer market trip is to arrive early. The market’s June hours of 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. are specifically designed to take advantage of the cooler morning air. Arriving when it opens not only means more comfortable temperatures but also offers the best selection of produce, potentially better parking, and fewer crowds. Local chefs and keen foodies are often among the first on the scene for prime pickings.
What to Bring: Your Summer Market Kit
- Reusable Shopping Bags: While some vendors might offer bags, it’s always a good idea to bring your own. It’s environmentally conscious, and not all stands may provide them.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in the Arizona heat. Carry water with you.
- Comfortable Shoes: Old Town is very walkable, and you’ll likely be on your feet exploring the market stalls and perhaps the surrounding area.
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, even during the earlier morning hours.
Market Etiquette & Practicalities: Smooth Shopping
- Pets: Good news for animal lovers: well-mannered pets are welcome at the market.
- Payment: The market accepts DUFB (Double Up Food Bucks) and SNAP benefits. It is also enrolled in the AZFMNP/WIC program (Arizona Farmers Market Nutrition Program/Women, Infants, and Children), with more details available at www.azfmnp.org. While many vendors will likely accept credit/debit cards, having some cash on hand can be useful for smaller purchases or if a vendor’s card reader is down.
- Vendor Interaction: Don’t hesitate to engage with the farmers and producers. They are passionate about their products and can offer insights into how items were grown or made. Asking about growing methods, especially for items like berries where some uncertified growers still avoid sprays, can be informative.
- Shopping Strategy: For the best selection, “grab fresh eggs, protein, and veggies first,” as these high-demand items can sell out quickly. Also, consider purchasing “whole fruits and veggies” rather than pre-cut options; they tend to retain their nutritional value and flavor longer and store better.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Smart Browsing
- Browse Before Buying: Take a stroll through the entire market to see all the available produce and specialty items before making your purchases. This helps you compare and ensure you don’t miss out on a unique find.
- Consider Pre-Ordering: Some vendors may offer a pre-order option for pickup. If you have favorite producers or specific items on your list, it might be worth contacting them in advance to secure your goods, which also allows for a more relaxed market visit.
Successfully navigating a summer farmers market in Scottsdale, particularly one as popular as Scottsdale’s Old Town, is enhanced by this kind of thoughtful preparation. It shifts the experience from a potentially rushed errand in the heat to an intentional and enjoyable outing. These considerations ensure comfort and allow visitors to fully appreciate the quality and diversity the market offers.
Beyond the Stalls: Exploring the Charm of Old Town
A visit to the Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market, especially with the “Breakfast at the Market” event during June Days, serves as a perfect gateway to exploring the wider charm of Old Town Scottsdale. With market activities concluding by 10 a.m., much of the day remains to discover what this historic and vibrant district has to offer.
Old Town is renowned for its compact and easily walkable layout, encompassing several distinct districts, each with its own character. After enjoying the market, visitors can seamlessly transition to:
- The arts District: Home to numerous fine art galleries, wine-tasting rooms, and public art installations. The Thursday night ArtWalk is a long-standing tradition.
- Fifth Avenue Shopping District: A long-time favorite boasting unique boutiques, shops, and award-winning restaurants.
- Historic Old Town: This area exudes an Old West flair with Western wear boutiques, Native American jewelry stores, and historic sites like the Little Red Schoolhouse and Cavalliere’s Blacksmith Shop.
- Scottsdale Waterfront & Southbridge Districts: Lining the Arizona Canal, these areas feature popular restaurants and boutiques.
- Museums: Scottsdale’s Old Town hosts cultural institutions such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), which often features special exhibitions as part of June Days.
Many of the “June Days” events are scattered throughout these areas, making it easy to combine a market visit with other festival activities. The market, therefore, is not just a destination for fresh food but an integral part of the broader Old Town Scottsdale cultural and recreational landscape. Its location and timing, especially during the summer, position it as an ideal starting point for a more immersive local experience.
A Summer Tradition Awaits
The Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmers Market in Summer 2025 offers more than just a shopping trip; it’s an invitation to participate in a cherished local tradition. It’s a place to savor the flavors of Arizona, support local enterprise, and connect with a community that values fresh food and authentic experiences. The early summer hours, the special “Breakfast at the Market” event, and the vibrant backdrop of “June Days” all combine to create a uniquely Scottsdale morning out.
By embracing the early start, discovering the seasonal bounty, and perhaps lingering to explore the historic streets of Old Town, visitors can craft a memorable summer Saturday. The market fosters a direct connection between shopper and grower, creating a “welcoming communal experience” that is both fun and enriching. It’s an opportunity to slow down, taste the difference that local makes, and become part of the fabric of this dynamic city. The Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market eagerly awaits your visit, promising fresh discoveries and warm hospitality in the heart of the desert.
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