The Omaha Farmers Market Tasting Walk is a self-guided seasonal experience held in the historic Old Market district of Omaha, Nebraska. From May through October, the market occupies the block around 11th and Jackson Streets on Saturdays from 8am to 12:30pm and on Sundays from 10am to 2pm, drawing vendors from across eastern Nebraska to sell fresh produce, artisan food products, and ready-to-eat street food in a lively outdoor setting.
The market's food offering spans fresh Nebraska produce — including sweet corn, tomatoes, stone fruit, and seasonal greens — alongside locally produced honey, jams, baked goods, and specialty cheeses. International street food vendors add a second dimension to the walk, with Latin American, Asian, and European food stalls selling hot prepared foods that can be eaten on site. Saturday mornings feature live music, creating a festival atmosphere that contrasts with the quieter Sunday market.
The experience requires no booking and no guide. Visitors set their own pace across one and a half to two hours and typically spend $15–$30 on food purchases. Most vendors accept credit cards, though cash is still preferred at several smaller stalls. The Old Market's cobblestone and brick streetscape surrounds the market, and several of the neighborhood's permanent restaurants open early on Saturday mornings to accommodate market visitors looking for a sit-down breakfast.
The market functions as both a food tasting walk and a snapshot of Nebraska's agricultural seasons. Spring visits feature early greens and strawberries; midsummer peaks with sweet corn, peppers, and stone fruit; late season highlights winter squash, apples, and root vegetables. First-time visitors are advised to arrive early on Saturdays when selection is widest and energy is highest.
What is included
- Fresh Nebraska produce
- Local artisan food stalls
- Live music (Saturdays)
Good to know
- Operator
- Self-guided
Location
11th & Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102 (Old Market)
41.2573, -95.9307 View on map
Highlights
- Browse 100+ seasonal vendors of fresh Nebraska produce, honey, jams, and baked goods in the Old Market
- Sample international street food from Latin American, Asian, and European vendors at open-air stalls
- Enjoy live music every Saturday morning while discovering locally grown and artisan Nebraska food products
- Trace Nebraska's agricultural seasons from spring strawberries through late-harvest winter squash and apples
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 9am on Saturdays — popular baked goods and specialty produce vendors sell out by mid-morning
- Bring cash alongside a card; several smaller vendors do not accept credit or debit payments
- Saturday mornings offer live music and highest vendor count; Sundays are quieter and less crowded
- Pack a reusable bag for purchased produce and artisan goods — vendors do not always provide large bags
- Old Market paid parking fills quickly on Saturdays; downtown hotels are within easy walking distance
Frequently asked questions
When does the Omaha Farmers Market operate?
The market runs from May through October only. Saturday hours are 8am–12:30pm and Sunday hours are 10am–2pm. It does not operate during winter months.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the market is free. Visitors spend money only on food and produce purchased from individual vendors, typically $15–$30 for a self-guided tasting walk.
Are gluten-free or vegan options available?
The market includes a range of vendors, some of whom specialize in gluten-free baked goods and vegan products. Selection varies by season and vendor; arriving early gives the widest choice.
Are pets allowed at the market?
Leashed dogs are generally welcome at the Omaha Farmers Market. Bringing water for pets is advisable during warm summer mornings.