2018 Farmers Market Poster Contest Winners

Posted On: June 15, 2018

This year, 160 farmers markets from 41 states submitted their unique market posters to the National Farmers Market Poster Contest. FMC staff, Farm Aid, and the contest judges were blown away by the quality and quantity of submissions. These posters individually speak to their respective markets, but collectively embody the commitment and involvement communities have to local foods and farmers.

Truly, these submissions were stunning. The posters captured the attention and engagement of FMC members and followers across the country, driving nearly 100,000 views to FMC’s Facebook page during just a single week of the contest. If you want a good dose of inspiration, be sure to check out all 184 submissions in our photo gallery. You won’t be disappointed.

For our brave judges, the decision certainly wasn’t an easy one. Even Facebook fans had yet another heated competition for Fan Favorite! FMC staff also wanted in on the action, so this year we’re featuring some honorable mentions picked by the staff.

We extend a special thank you to Farm Aid for sponsoring the contest and sharing our deep commitment to farmers markets. It was a pleasure to work with an organization long dedicated to family farms. A big thank you also goes out to our fantastic judges:

Deb Bentzel, The Food Trust
Cain Credicott, Paleo Magazine
Erik Grimstad & Beth Satterwhite, Even Pull Farm
Teri Turner, Nocrumbsleft
Glenda Yoder, Farm Aid
Jen Cheek, Executive Director, FMC

Now, without further adieu, our 2018 contest winners!

First Place: Bremerton Farmers Market, Washington

Bremerton Farmers Market held a Community Artwork Contest to source their 2018 poster, which is also featured on market t-shirts.

Second Place: Kingston Farmers Market, New York

The 2018 poster includes indigenous plants and a view of the street in Kingston where the market is held each week.

Best EBT/Nutrition Incentive Poster: Oxford Community Market, Mississippi

Fan Favorite Winner: Ligonier Country Market, Pennsylvania

Each photograph used is from a vendor proudly showing the market’s “Make It – Bake It – Grow It” philosophy. The poster was created by a vendor, Cherise Burau.

Best Metrics Poster: Hood River Farmers Market, Oregon

The metrics poster includes most of the metrics gathered for the market to share with the local community to demonstrates how awesome farmers markets are.

Staff Picks/Honorable Mentions:

Jen’s Pick: 61st Street Farmers Market, Illinois

“I love how this poster focuses on the people visiting the market. It’s bright, cheerful, and eye catching while providing a good sense of what it feels like to shop at the market.”- Jen

Honesta’s Pick: Community Farmers Market, Kentucky

“There’s something to be said about clean, simple messaging, with a splash of vibrate, water-colored veggies. One of my favorites from the start!”- Honesta

Marian’s Pick: Fairfax Farmers Market, California

The market encourages everyone to bike to the market since there is not much parking in Fairfax, CA. THe also offer matching funds for SNAP customers and partner with market match and FM Life to make that happen.

“I like that the market match is highly visible, and the poster has just enough information to pique your interest without giving too much away.”- Marian

Ben’s Pick: Armory Farmers Market, Rhode Island

“This poster has art with rich detail on many of the aspects of what draws people to a market and includes multiple languages, while also providing clear information about day/time and types of payment accepted.”- Ben

Steph’s Pick: Old Capitol Farmers Market, Illinois

Created by Molly Gleason, Communications Director, Illinois Stewardship Alliance.

“I love this poster. It’s striking, colorful, funny, and it focuses on just what I think about when I think about going to the farmers market – coming home with a bountiful supply of fresh produce, bread, flowers, and whatever else catches my eye!”- Stephanie

Liz’s Pick: Bellevue Farmers Market, Washington

Illustrated by Alex Carr, BFM volunteer.

“This poster has a fresh look and I love that it depicts so many elements found at the farmers market.”- Liz

Dar’s Pick: Perkasie Farmers Market, Pennsylvania

The market poster highlights the importance of the community the market serves and is a part of. The art features illustrations of farmers and patrons.

“The activities and the people are diverse and the directness of the design is striking. I like when I see farmers market posters with vendors handing things directly to people too.”- Dar

Emma’s Pick: Champaign Farmers Market, Illinois

“I love that the SNAP matching program is front and center! This poster is clear and visually appealing without being overwhelming. It provides the perfect amount of information!”- Emma

Allie’s Pick: Downtown Salt Lake City Farmers Market, Utah

“Clever text placements, beautiful illustration, and a road leading to market. I want to be in that truck!”- Allie