Bradenton Public Market is back this weekend and bigger than ever. 5 things to know

The Downtown Bradenton Public Market is back and bigger than ever in 2022.

The colorful community gathering returns to Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and it will happen each weekend through the end of May.

The event is hosted by local nonprofit Realize Bradenton, and it brings regional growers, crafters, artisans, chefs and musicians to town for a display of talents and wares.

This year, the market is nearly doubling in size to around 100 vendors a week.

Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your farmers’ market adventure.

Where to park

A portion of Old Main Street is closed to vehicle traffic for the market.

Downtown street parking is free on weekends, as is parking at the City Centre parking garage.

Additional weekend parking is available at the city lot located at 13th Street West and 4th Avenue West and at the Manatee County Public Parking Garage at Manatee Avenue West and 10th Street West.

What to bring

The Public Market is an all outdoors, rain-or-shine event, so prepare for the weather before you go — whether that means shades and sunscreen, or an umbrella and raincoat.

Bringing along some reusable bags for your market finds is always a good idea.

Many vendors accept credit cards, but it’s best to have cash on hand if you want to avoid hunting for a nearby ATM. Many market vendors also accept SNAP.

Who to bring

The Bradenton Public Market is family friendly, and dogs on leashes are also welcome.

If you plan on bringing a pup to the market, make sure that weather conditions are safe to do so. Hot temperatures can make dogs overheat and hot pavement can wound paws.

Here’s a good rule of thumb, according to SPCA Florida: “Put the back of your hand on the pavement. If you cannot hold it there for 5 seconds, it is too hot to walk (your dog).”

What‘s for sale?

Expect to see vendors selling everything from soup to nuts (literally).

The Bradenton Public Market brings more than 35 vendors together in one place, offering items such as:

▪ Fruits and vegetables (locally and regionally sourced, including organic and hydroponically-grown produce);

▪ Honey from Florida;

▪ Plants (flowers, bromeliads, air plants, succulents, fruit trees and more);

▪ Fresh food, snacks, desserts and drinks (iced tea, coffee, kettle corn, street eats, Italian cuisine, Greek pastry and more);

▪ Produce, meats and packaged and prepared foods (local fruits, veggies and mushrooms, locally-raised meat, canned goods, pantry items, cakes and more);

▪ Pet treats and apparel;

▪ Arts and crafts;

▪ Clothing, accessories and jewelry.

The market also features live music performances, cooking demonstrations and art displays.

Visiting the Public Market is also a great chance to explore the downtown’s dining scene. After you shop, there are plenty of spots for lunch, dessert or drinks on and around Old Main Street.

Music and special events

The Bradenton Public Market isn’t just shopping local — you can listen local, too.

The market provides live music every week from a diverse range of Bradenton-area singer-songwriters, folk musicians, jazz players and more.

Many special events and themed market days throughout the year also keep things interesting on Old Main.

Keep an eye on Realize Bradenton’s website and Facebook page for updates about this year’s special events.

See you at the market.

• Details: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. every Saturday Oct.-May. Old Main Street, Bradenton. Free.
• Info: realizebradenton.com.