A couple of weekends ago, I wandered into the Two Harbors Farmers Market for the first time since its big move from Burlington Station to the parking lot at Seagren’s. The new space was buzzing—tables piled with produce and baked goods, vendors greeting neighbors by name, and that familiar small-town warmth that makes the market feel more like a gathering than a shopping trip.
Things were lively that morning, and I wondered what kind of feedback the organization had received about the move. To find out, I reached out to market manager Bianca Seay, who has been with the group since its beginning.
“The Two Harbors Farmers Market has grown steadily since its start in 2012,” Seay said in an email exchange. “What began as a small group of local growers and makers has expanded into a vibrant market with more than 40 vendors each season, offering everything from fresh produce and flowers to baked goods, preserves, and handmade crafts.”
That steady growth has also drawn more shoppers.
“Over the years, we’ve seen not just an increase in the number of vendors, but also in the diversity of products and the size of our customer base,” Seay said. “More families, tourists, and community members make the market part of their weekly routine, and our recent move to Seagren’s Home Hardware Outdoors has only added to that momentum.”
Seay sees the move as a milestone, one that has created a more accessible space for vendors and visitors during the season, which runs from late May through mid-October. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
“As the market manager, I’ve been thrilled with the response to our new,” she reported. “Vendors have told me they love the extra visibility and the steady stream of customers who find it easier than ever to stop by.”
I can vouch for that myself. Parking at the new venue was simple, and I admit I’ve skipped the market in the past when parking felt impossible. Many shoppers feel the same.
“Shoppers have shared how much they appreciate the convenient parking and the open, welcoming layout that makes strolling through the market a real pleasure,” said Seay. “What I notice most is people lingering a little longer, chatting with vendors, and enjoying the market as more than just a place to shop, it’s a community gathering space, and that’s exactly what we hoped this move would bring.”
That vision lines up with the market’s mission: creating an inclusive, community-focused gathering that supports small businesses and celebrates the unique character of the region.
“Nestled on Minnesota’s scenic North Shore, it provides a welcoming space that highlights local flavor and creativity,” said Seay. “The market’s acceptance of SNAP and Market Bucks has made fresh, local food more accessible, while the consistency of weekly gatherings has strengthened community connections and supported dozens of businesses.”
The Two Harbors Farmers Market continues through October 18, open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. As fall approaches, the offerings expand to root vegetables, pumpkins, apples, preserves, and baked goods—items Seay calls “perfect offerings for cozy, autumn meals.”
She believes shopping at farmers’ markets benefits both the community and the individual.
“Shopping at farmers’ markets means fresher, more flavorful food that’s often harvested just days— or even hours—before you take it home. You get seasonal variety, unique heirloom crops, and the chance to ask growers directly about their practices,” she said.
I saw plenty of those conversations happening when I visited. One shopper lingered over maple syrup, listening intently as the vendor shared fun facts about tapping and boiling. Those kinds of exchanges build confidence in purchases and pride in supporting local producers.
“By shopping here, you support small farmers, food producers, and artisans while keeping more dollars circulating locally,” Seay pointed out. “Markets also foster community, reduce packaging and transport impacts, and often offer accessibility programs like SNAP, making high-quality food available to more people.”
Watching the market thrive over the years has been a highlight of Seay’s work.
“I’ve seen the market expand from a small circle of dedicated vendors into a bustling community hub that draws both locals and visitors every weekend. Being part of this growth, supporting our farmers, makers, and small businesses while building a welcoming space for the community, has been an incredible experience,” she said. “Each season brings new energy, new faces, and new opportunities to celebrate the local abundance we’re so proud of here on the North Shore.”
For more information about the Two Harbors Farmers Market, visit their Facebook page or their website at twoharborsfarmersmarket.com. To contact the market, email info@twoharborsfarmersmarket.com.
