New indoor market space at Columbia farmers market

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

The MU Health Pavilion, home of the Columbia Farmers Market, has been renovated, adding hundreds of feet of indoor market space. The expansion marks a milestone in a 43-year collaborative effort between CFM, the City of Columbia, MU Health Care, and the dozens of farmers who use the space to showcase their products.

The final product added nearly 500 feet of indoor market space, with industrial ceiling fans in the summer and vinyl siding and heaters in the winter.

Benefits of the Expansion

The expansion of the Columbia Farmers Market offers several benefits to both vendors and customers:

Protection from the elements: Two-thirds of market vendors were previously exposed to the elements. The new indoor space will protect vendors, their products, and customers from the weather.
Year-round operation: The market runs year-round, and the new indoor space will make it easier for vendors to operate comfortably during the winter months.
Community building: The market is a place where the city meets the countryside and people can connect with farmers. The new indoor space will make it easier for people to gather and socialize.

Vendor Perspective

Jim Tice, founder of The Veggie Patch Farm, has been involved in the market since 1995. He says the new indoor space will make a big difference for his business.

"If it rains, there's no market. Customers just don't come," Tice said. "Now, where we have cover and protection, customers will take their umbrellas and go into the shade, they'll take some time out ... and continue shopping."

Customer Perspective

Corrina Smith, CFM Executive Director, says the expansion will make the market more convenient and accessible for customers.

"It's a space where everyone can come and have access to this amazing food produced by our farmers, bakers, and ranchers within a 50-mile radius of Columbia," Smith said.

Community Event

The Columbia Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy fresh food. It's also a community event where people can come together and socialize. The new indoor space will make it easier for people to enjoy the market, regardless of the weather.