Why I Love Four Sisters Farmers Market: A Thursday Gem
Alright folks, I’ve got a midweek gem for you. If you find yourself in or around Minneapolis on a Thursday, make your way to the Four Sisters Farmers Market. Nestled right in the American Indian Cultural Corridor, this market brings something far deeper than your usual basket of cucumbers and honey. It’s a full-on celebration of Indigenous food, culture, and community—and trust me, it’s the kind of thing you don’t just walk through—you feel it.
As a suburban dad who loves home gardening, grilling out back, and supporting local, this market hit me right in the heart (and yes, the taste buds too).
What Makes This Market So Special?
Hosted by the Native American Community Development Institute (NACDI), the Four Sisters Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy produce—it’s a powerful space that reconnects community to the land, culture, and each other.
Every Thursday from 11 AM to 3 PM, June 5 through October 30, the market takes over the parking lot at 1414 E. Franklin Avenue, right by Pow Wow Grounds Coffee House. (Hot tip: the coffee’s legit.)
Here’s what makes it a must-visit:
- Indigenous-run and centered on food sovereignty
- Fresh produce, handmade crafts, art, flowers, and more
- A strong sense of togetherness and community
- Accepts SNAP/EBT, Market Bucks, cash, and cards
- Offers $10 SNAP matching, thanks to Hunger Solutions MN
Now, let’s talk about what’s new this season—and it’s something I’m personally excited about.
New in 2025: The Four Sisters Farmers Market Urban Growers Collective
Launched in July 2024, the Four Sisters Urban Growers Collective is changing the game. Think of it like a farmers market version of a tag-team match: multiple small-scale Indigenous urban farmers come together to sell their goods at a collective market table.
Instead of having to manage their own booths, these growers can share space, resources, and support—making it easier for more people to get their foot in the market door. It’s all about:
- Supporting new and established urban growers
- Offering a wider variety of fresh produce and flowers
- Strengthening access to culturally appropriate, healthy food
- Fighting health disparities in urban Indigenous communities
The result? More options, more vendors, and more reasons to stop by on a Thursday afternoon. Plus, it just feels good knowing your dollars are directly helping real people grow their passion and feed their neighborhoods.
If you’re an urban grower, they’re even accepting new participants. That’s what I call planting seeds—literally and metaphorically.
Favorite Vendors to Visit
No farmers market is complete without its standout vendors, and this one is packed with them. Every booth here has a story. Here are a few that caught my eye (and filled my bag):
- Dream of Wild Health – Indigenous-led farm reconnecting Native youth to traditional growing practices
- Wiishkoban – “It is sweet” in Ojibwe, and yes, their sweet treats and preserves are exactly that
- Niniijaanis One of Ones – Statement pieces, streetwear, and art from Native creators
- Botanical Atelier – All-natural body care made from Indigenous botanicals
- Rusty Patch Farm, Edible Arts MN, Gatherings Café, and more
Pro tip: show up early if you’re after seasonal produce or baked goods—they go fast!
A Family-Friendly Afternoon Out
As a dad, I love events that make learning fun for my kids—and Four Sisters delivers. There’s usually music, cultural displays, and the kind of low-key educational moments that kids (and parents) don’t even realize they’re having. It’s not just a market, it’s a living classroom about Indigenous food systems, sustainability, and community care.
The open layout is stroller-friendly, there’s space to wander, and kids can talk directly to growers. My youngest even learned the difference between kale and chard—and asked to eat both later (miracles happen).
Easy Payment Options
This market walks the walk when it comes to food access:
- SNAP/EBT is accepted
- Market Bucks & Gus Produce Market Bucks available
- Thanks to Hunger Solutions, if you spend $10 with EBT, you get $20 more in produce
- Cash and cards welcome too
Just stop by the market manager’s table if it’s your first time—they’re incredibly helpful and will explain how everything works.
Here are your Direction going to the Four Sisters Farmers Market
Location:
🗺️ 1414 E. Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
📆 Thursdays, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (June 5 – October 30)
Parking:
🚗 Free street parking nearby
Don’t Miss:
☕ A cup of coffee or frybread at Pow Wow Grounds Coffee House next door
🪴 The new Urban Growers Collective table
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the market open to everyone or just Native community members?
A: Everyone is welcome! While it is Indigenous-led and focused on Indigenous food sovereignty, the Four Sisters Farmers Market is open to the public and encourages everyone to shop and learn.
Q: Can I use my EBT card here?
A: Absolutely! The market accepts SNAP/EBT and even offers matching dollars—spend $10, get $20 more to spend on produce.
Q: What kind of products will I find?
A: Fresh vegetables, herbs, fruit, flowers, jams, baked goods, handmade crafts, Indigenous art, skincare, and more. The vendors change weekly, so there’s always something new.
Q: What if I’m an urban grower and want to join?
A: You’re in luck! The Urban Growers Collective is welcoming new participants. Reach out to NACDI or check their website to fill out the interest form.
Q: Is it family-friendly?
A: Very much so. Open space, cultural learning moments, friendly vendors, and a laid-back atmosphere make it a great stop with kids in tow.
Q: Is it dog-friendly?
A: Yes, leashed dogs are welcome—just be respectful of vendor space and other shoppers.
Final Dad Thoughts About the Four Sisters Farmers Market
When people talk about “shopping local,” this is what they should mean. The Four Sisters Farmers Market isn’t just supporting businesses—it’s supporting sovereignty, healing, and community resilience.
If you’re in the Twin Cities, do yourself a favor and drop by on a Thursday. Whether you leave with a tote full of kale or a handmade bracelet, you’ll walk away knowing you were part of something meaningful.
Bring the kids. Bring your appetite. Bring your curiosity.
You’ll be glad you did.
