The Royal Oak Farmers Market is turning 100! For the past century, the market has been a cornerstone of the community, providing fresh produce, handmade goods and a gathering place for friends and families. As we mark this incredible milestone, we invite you to join us for a series of special events to honor the rich history and bright future of the market.

Since its founding in 1925, the Royal Oak Farmers Market has been more than just a place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables – it has been a hub for local farmers, artisans and residents to connect. Generations of vendors and shoppers have made it a vibrant and essential part of life in Royal Oak. From the early days of horse-drawn wagons delivering produce to today’s bustling market filled with diverse offerings, the market has reflected the changing times while maintaining its core mission of supporting local agriculture and small businesses.

To celebrate 100 years of tradition, community and growth, the Royal Oak Farmers Market is hosting a series of exciting events:

Centennial Flower and Garden Day – Join us on May 24 for a beautiful day filled with fresh flowers, plants and gardening inspiration. Meet local growers and bring home some blooms to brighten your home. Saturday, May 24, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., Royal Oak Farmers Market.

100 Vendors and Corn Roast – On August 9, we’re bringing together 100 vendors for a special market day, complete with a delicious corn roast. Come explore the best in local produce, crafts and more! Saturday, August 9, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., Royal Oak Farmers Market.

Centennial Celebration Harvest Festival – Celebrate the bounty of the season on October 8 with fall-themed activities, seasonal treats and live music as we wrap up this centennial year in style.

Come celebrate with us and be part of the legacy that has made the Royal Oak Farmers Market a beloved institution for 100 years. Whether you’ve been coming for decades or it’s your first visit, we can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with you!

Don’t forget our Food Truck Rally – Sights & Sounds Concert Series! Second Wednesday of each month during the summer. See more details in this issue’s calendar page.

For more information, visit our website or follow us on social media. See you at the market!



Some History . . .

On October 14, 1925, at the northwest corner of Fourth and Troy, the first Royal Oak Farmers Market opened to the public. The market was an open-air market and operated Mon., Wed., and Fri., at 7 a.m. The City of Royal Oak and Oakland County ran the market, and the market master was A.L. Bell.

The farmers were charged 25 cents per vehicle, there were about 40 vehicles on hand opening day of the Market. Farmers came from 25-30 miles away – one came from Kalamazoo with a load of celery. The property was owned by Mrs. Mary A. Kenner and was leased for one year, with the city having the option to renew for one or two years after that.

In the summer of 1926, Ed Bungart, a farmer from Troy, and Ray Rose, a farmer from Memphis, Michigan, went to A.L. Bell about building a farmers market. Bell liked the idea and so did Oakland County.

In the fall of 1926, the city and county proposed a public market site at First (11 Mile) and Troy. In late December they were approved to buy the property for $46,000.

The property included two pieces, which adjoined. Two houses were on the Troy property. The corner of 11 Mile and Troy was not included in the deal, being occupied by The First Church of Christ, Scientist.

The two bodies got divided ownership of the parcel – the county got 60 percent and the city got 40 percent. The land was divided into five parcels – the county bought three and the city bought two. The property was purchased from Mrs. Susie K. Robb and Mr. and Mrs. Vigo Mortenson.

In 1927 the building was constructed by N.A. Starr Company and opened in June 1927.

Over the years, the Market was called Royal Oak Curb Market, then Royal Municipal Market, then the Royal Oak Community Market, then the Oakland County/Royal Oak Farmers Market, and then the Royal Oak Farmers Market.