Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Independence Park Farmers Market?

Since 2004, the Independence Park Farmers Market has been an open-air food market and bi-weekly community gathering. It is operated by the Greater Independence Park Neighborhood Association (GIPNA) and runs from June 13 through October 24, 2021. It is a place where local farmers and sustainable food producers sell their goods and build relationships with consumers, where residents come to see and meet their neighbors, be fed and entertained, and grow their participation in the Independence Park community.

What is the Greater Independence Park Neighborhood Association?

The Greater Independence Park Neighborhood Association (GIPNA) is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the quality of life in the Independence Park community by involving, informing, and encouraging residents to participate in matters relating to the community, and by protecting the historical, social, cultural, and architectural character of the neighborhood.

GIPNA is a 501c3 non-profit organization.

How is the Market supported?

GIPNA seeks to encourage small farmers and agricultural producers to participate in the Market by keeping the fees as low as possible. As a result, vendor payments cover only a part of the cost of operating the Market. The necessary additional support comes from sponsorships, the sale of advertising and promotional opportunities, grants, donations, and community fundraising efforts.

What are the Market hours?

The Market is open for business from 9 AM to 1 PM on the second and fourth Sundays from June through October.

Where does the Market take place?

The market is held in Independence Park, 3945 N. Springfield, Chicago, IL 60618, along the Irving Park Road side and in front of the east side of the field house. Independence Park is part of the Chicago Park District.

I’m a Vendor interested in applying for a place at the market. What do I need to do?

We’re working with Manage My Market to handle incoming applications. To apply:

  1. Go to www.managemymarket.com

  2. Create an account as a vendor

  3. Go to apply to a market and search for Independence Park Farmers Market 2023 or search in Chicago, IL to see all markets.

  4. Fill out the questions and agree to our rules (which are the same as always)

  5. Click submit and we’ll review your application.

You can add products if you’d like, but it is not necessary.

How do Vendors comply with Chicago Park District regulations?

Driving and parking are strictly prohibited on the pathways or grass. The penalty is $75 per axle. Polystyrene (styrofoam) or #6 plastic is prohibited. We encourage the use of recyclable containers for food and beverages. Use of biodegradeable plastic bags is encouraged. Trash must be separated into either the blue recycle bin or green trash containers.

Where do Vendors park their vehicles during the Market?

Unload your vehicle in either of the two lots north and south of the main field house at 3945 N. Springfield or on Irving Park Road, whichever location is more convenient for you. Convey your products to your assigned location. Unless you have been given permission by the Market Manager to leave your vehicle in the north or south lot, please park on Byron Street (south side of Independence Park); tape the supplied parking permit by the rear license plate. Do not park on Irving Park Road so that it is available for customer parking.