The heart of the eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan isn’t just about beautiful lakes and towering forests—it’s also home to vibrant farmers’ markets that celebrate the region’s agricultural bounty. Curtis, Engadine, and Manistique are three picturesque towns that may seem small but offer plenty of locally-grown produce, handcrafted goods, and a strong sense of community. Let’s explore what these markets have to offer!
1. Curtis Farmers Market
- Location: Duberville Homestead/Mary’s Garden, W16683 Sandtown Rd., Curtis
- When: Fridays, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (June to September)
- Contact: 906-586-6267 or duberville03@gmail.com
Curtis, known for its peaceful, lakeside vibe, hosts a weekly farmers’ market. This market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers, offering a great opportunity for both locals and visitors to support local agriculture while enjoying a vibrant community setting.
What You Can Expect:
- Fresh Produce: Seasonal vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuces, and root vegetables.
- Locally Raised Meats: High-quality pork, beef, and sometimes poultry, raised on nearby farms.
- Baked Goods: Homemade pies, breads, cookies, and more.
- Crafts and Handmade Goods: Many local artists and crafters sell jewelry, woodwork, pottery, and other handmade items.
- Local Honey and Maple Syrup: Pure U.P. honey and syrup harvested right in the area, perfect for gifts or your own pantry.
It’s an ideal place to shop for a picnic or stock up on ingredients for your home kitchen. Plus, you’re likely to meet many friendly locals who are eager to share their stories about life in the U.P. If you live in the area or are staying in the area during the summer, a few of these vendors offer a CSA subscription box of farm fresh veggies, flowers and other items.
2. Engadine Farmers Market
- Location: Mill Pond Park Pavilion, Main Street, Engadine
- When: Saturdays, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (June to September)
Located just a short drive from Curtis, Engadine’s farmers market is another hidden gem. Hosted at the Mill Pond Park Pavilion, this market serves as a local hub for fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisanal crafts. Though small in size, it offers a curated selection of goods that reflect the hard work and dedication of local farmers and artisans.
What You Can Expect:
- Farm-Fresh Vegetables: Whether you’re looking for leafy greens, squash, or Michigan’s famous sweet corn, you’ll find a variety of vegetables that are harvested at their peak.
- Artisan Breads: Rustic loaves, whole wheat options, and gluten-free varieties are often available from local bakers.
- Eggs and Dairy: You’ll find fresh, free-range eggs and possibly locally sourced cheeses from farms in the surrounding areas.
- Crafts and Gifts: Beautiful handcrafted items such as quilts, knitted products, and other unique gifts that showcase the region’s crafting traditions.
- Homemade Preserves and Jams: Take home jars of preserves, salsas, and pickles made from locally grown fruits and vegetables.
Engadine’s market has a cozy feel where vendors know many of their customers by name. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere makes it an enjoyable stop on a Saturday morning, whether you’re grabbing ingredients for dinner or browsing for handcrafted goods. Like Curtis, Engadine’s market is about more than just shopping—it’s about building community and celebrating local talent. If you’re going there to grab some baked goods, be sure to get there early because they have been known to sell out!
3. Manistique Farmers and Artisans Market
- Location: Triangle Park / Oak Street / Arbutus Ave in Manistique. On rainy days, the market moves indoors to Lake Effect Arts at 244 S. Cedar St.
- When: Wednesdays, 5:00PM to 6:30 PM (May 29th to October 30th)
At the Manistique Farmers’ Market in Manistique, you can expect a variety of local goods and a community-centered atmosphere. Here’s what you might experience:
Local Produce
- A wide selection of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables grown by local farmers.
- You can find everything from leafy greens and root vegetables to berries, apples, and pumpkins, depending on the season.
Artisan Goods
- Locally made products such as jams, honey, baked goods, and cheeses.
- Homemade crafts, soaps, and natural skincare products are often available from small businesses and artisans.
Local Meats and Dairy
- Vendors offering farm-fresh meats, eggs, and possibly dairy products like milk and cheese.
- Meat from grass-fed animals and free-range eggs are popular items.
Community Atmosphere
- The market fosters a friendly, welcoming environment where locals and visitors mingle.
- It’s common to find live music, activities for children, and demonstrations on gardening or cooking.
Sustainable Practices
- Many vendors focus on organic and sustainable farming practices.
- You’ll likely find products that are pesticide-free, non-GMO, and produced with minimal environmental impact.
The market is a great place to support local farmers and artisans while experiencing the culture and charm of Manistique.
Why Visit These Farmers’ Markets
All three markets offer unique farmers’ markets that reflect the spirit of the Upper Peninsula. Shopping at these markets supports local farmers and artisans, reduces your environmental footprint by cutting down on food miles, and allows you to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful ingredients.
Whether you’re a tourist staying at a cabin in Curtis like the Hideaway Tiny Cabin or a local resident, these markets provide:
- Fresh, Local Food: The taste of freshly picked produce simply can’t be matched by what’s available in big grocery stores.
- Sustainable Shopping: Many farmers use sustainable or organic methods, making your shopping choices better for the environment.
- Community Connections: Chat with local farmers, artisans, and neighbors as you shop. You’ll leave with more than just food—you’ll have a sense of the vibrant community that defines the Upper Peninsula.
Here are a few of the vendors you will find and one of all of these markets along with some of what they offer and their contact information if available. Most of these vendors can also be found on social media:
Duberville Homestead/Mary’s Garden: fresh organic seasonal vegetables and flowers at the farmers markets as well as Mary’s Garden Natural Food Shoppe which offers a variety of natural fresh and canned foods, pasta, coffee, spices and condiments and more. They also offer a CSA subscription in the spring. 906-586-6267
Furlong Creek Farm: offers a variety of seasonal heirloom and open pollinated produce as well as grass fed beef, pasteurized pork, pastured free range chicken, pastured lamb and maple syrup along with artisan breads and pastries. They also offer a CSA subscription in the spring through the beginning of fall. Check out their website at www.furlongcreekfarm.com or contact Andrea at furlongfarm@furlongcreekfarm.com or 906-477-1057
Tucker Farm – offering home preserved jams and jellies as well as homemade baked goods. Contact information: liztucker58@gmail.com or 815-685-0828
Pells Pie Patch and Family Farm – Located in Gould City and known for their incredible home baked pies and baked goods such as artisan sourdough breads and bagels. Check out their website www.pellspiepatch.com and you can place your order and pick up the next day in most cases. You’ll also find them at one or more of the markets in the season. Call 906-287-5041 or email farm@pellspiepatch.com
Kush And Pronk Farm – farm fiber, succulents, vegetables and more located in Rapid River, MI. check out their website at https://kushandpronk.com/ or email at kushandpronkfarm@gmail.com
Rusty Belle Farm – A small bee encouraging, egg producing, Brown Swiss dairy farm and pumpkin patch. Their pumpkin patch opens September 21st. For more information contact them at 906-280-9925.
Sweet Life Acres – Seasonal vegetables and artisan made bath and body products. Contact information is contact@sweetlifeacres.com
Final Thoughts
Exploring the farmers’ markets in Curtis and Engadine allows you to discover the hidden gems of the Upper Peninsula, from farm-fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Each market offers something unique, making them must-visit spots for anyone wanting to experience the best of local U.P. culture. Whether you’re looking for fresh ingredients for your next meal or a special souvenir, Curtis and Engadine markets have you covered.
So the next time you’re in the area, make a stop at one (or both) of these markets and enjoy a delightful blend of fresh flavors, handcrafted goods, and warm community spirit.
Get U.P. here! The weather has been fabulous and the forecast looks like it’s in our favor for quite a while. Fall is THE BEST time to be here! NO BUGS and the autumn colors are gorgeous. Need I say more? Book your stay with us at the Hideaway Tiny Cabin soon. By the way, we’re open all year around if winter sports is your thing.
Talk soon
Nancy and Don