Congress Designates August 3–9, 2025, as 'National Farmers Market Week'

This resolution officially designates the week of August 3 through August 9, 2025, as “National Farmers Market Week.” The purpose is straightforward: to recognize and celebrate the massive, yet often overlooked, contributions farmers markets make to local economies, food access, and community health. It’s a purely symbolic move—a shout-out from Congress—but it’s built on some serious numbers.

The Real Money Behind the Tomatoes

When we talk about farmers markets, we’re not just talking about a nice Saturday morning outing; we’re talking about significant economic drivers. The resolution points out that in 2020 alone, these markets generated a whopping $1.7 billion in revenue for U.S. farmers. That’s a lot of direct-to-consumer cash flow. Furthermore, the number of markets has exploded, growing from 1,755 in 1994 to 8,771 by 2019, reflecting almost 7% annual growth. This growth shows that consumers, especially those aged 25-45 looking for fresh, local food, are voting with their wallets for this model.

Why This Matters to Your Wallet and Health

For the average person juggling work and family, farmers markets offer more than just fresh produce. The resolution highlights that these markets function as crucial links between urban and rural communities, acting as educational centers that help consumers understand where their food comes from. More practically, they are vital for food access, especially for lower-income families who use federal nutrition benefits like SNAP and WIC, which are often doubled or matched at these locations. For a working parent trying to stretch their grocery budget while feeding their kids healthier food, that direct connection and benefit access is huge.

A Nod to Sustainability and Community

Beyond the economics, the resolution recognizes that farmers markets encourage more sustainable farming methods. When farmers talk directly to consumers, they get immediate feedback and often pivot toward growing practices that customers demand, like organic or low-pesticide options. By designating the first full week of August 2025 for national recognition, Congress is essentially putting a spotlight on the fact that these markets are indispensable for local economies, community gathering, and promoting healthier eating habits across the country.