April showers bring May flowers — and farmers markets.

McHenry County as well as other places have many different farmers markets to enjoy this Spring and Summer.

Pearl Street Market, also known as Concert in the Park is located at Veteran’s Memorial Park in McHenry. There is a wide variety of vendors, food trucks, music, and activities.

“I love seeing everyone from the community come together to support each other, have fun listening to the music, shopping, kids playing, and friends hanging out.” said Jennifer Bence, owner of Totally Cupcaked.

Bence is one of several vendors at this event. She has been in business since 2018, baking gourmet cupcakes and other desserts.

She has been a vendor at the Pearl Street Market since 2022. In the past she has also worked at the Dole Market in Crystal Lake, as well as other artisan markets and shows.

Bence says that her reason for wanting to work with local farmers markets is, “the markets are a great way to meet new people and build relationships with new customers.” Bence stated that she, “loves to support small businesses” and since she is also one herself, she has “made it a point to give back to our community” as much as she can in different ways.

Whether you are looking to get to know your community a little better, are interested in trying new things, or just want to get outside and enjoy yourself, the local markets are the place to be. Below is a list of just a few markets that will be opening soon.

Pearl Street Market (aka “Concert in the Park). Located at Veteran’s Memorial Park 3400 Pearl St, McHenry. Open Thursdays at 5:00 p.m. beginning May 15th.

The Markets of Remington Farm. Located at 3519 Chapel Hill Rd, Johnsburg. Open the first Saturday of the month beginning in May.

Farmer Market+ At The Dole. Located at The Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Rd, Crystal Lake. Open now, Sundays at 10 a.m.

Woodstock Farmers Market. Located at the Historic Woodstock Square, Woodstock. Open on Saturdays at 9 a.m., beginning in May.

Rubber Ducky Country Market. Located 36116 128th St Suite B, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. Opening in May.

Lake Geneva Farmer’s Market. Located outside of the Horticulture Hall 330 Broad St, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Open Thursdays at 8 a.m., beginning May 2.