Dearborn's farmers' market and a quick preview of Homecoming

 

From 8 am until 1 pm every Friday, downtown west Dearborn hosts a farmers' and artists' market featuring the freshest produce, baked goods, and hand crafted goodies one could hope for in a suburban setting. The baskets of fruits and vegetables are overflowing and look fresh-picked. The prices are reasonable and the browsing fun. Vendors are willing to chat about everything from their wares to the way things were "in the good old days" when farmers hauled their produce down to Eastern Market in Detroit and the trip took several hours each way on a dirt two-track.
While this isn't a big "arts and crafts" fair, there are several booths offering handcrafted bird houses, willow twig benches, make-your-own beaded jewelry, and even a vendor offering wire art for your yard made from recycled political signs (will American ingenuity - and the entrepreneurial spirit - never cease?) Kids have plenty to do as there is a crafts booth set up just for them at the southeast end of the market, right next to the library.
The market is located on Michigan Avenue at Mason, between the Bryant branch of the Dearborn library and Buddy's Pizza, on the north side of the street.  Metered parking is located along the streets or in the lots immediately behind the market. Warning! Michigan Avenue, both east and west bound from the Southfield Expressway into downtown Dearborn is a huge mess.  There is major construction, and the part of the road that is still open during the work is in horrible condition. Take it slowly as you drive through there!
As usual, Dearborn's annual "Homecoming" will be the first full weekend in August (this year, Aug. 7-9.)  The farmers' market will be a small part of the huge calendar of festivities scheduled for the area over that weekend. One thing to make note of this year is how budget friendly the city has tried deliberately to be considering the economic crunch in our area.  They are offering quite a few events, such as inflatable bounce rides, a fishing derby, and wacky contests for kids completely free of charge. The car show, strolling entertainers, and arts and crafts booth, as always, can be enjoyed at no cost as can the fireworks scheduled on two nights of the celebration.  Many other events only require a minimal fee, so even families bringing along the whole crew can have a ball on a budget. Be sure to click on the Homecoming link above for more information and a complete list of all of the events.