September marks six months since the Waco Downtown Farmers Market officially moved to Bridge Street Plaza. And what a journey it’s been! In March, the beloved market left its longtime spot in front of the McLennan County Courthouse to begin a new chapter across the river in East Waco.

The new location offers what the old courthouse lot could not: shaded green space, picnic tables and a permanent stage. Live music fills the air as shoppers stroll past rows of fresh produce, artisan breads and handmade goods. The move was more than a change of scenery—it signaled a new era for a weekly tradition that has been connecting farmers, makers and neighbors since 2011.

A Space Designed for Gathering

Bridge Street Plaza was designed as a place where people could come together, not just to shop, but to spend time. The market’s partnership with City Center Waco helped make the move possible. Africa Tarver, City Center Waco’s Executive Director, shared that the move to Bridge Street Plaza has “enhanced entrepreneurial opportunities, provided healthier and diverse food options from local farms and cultivated community connections.” This family-friendly market offers something for everyone!

Because of the clear vision for the area, events like the Levitt AMP Waco Music Series and Art on Elm now have a natural home at the market. The plaza’s layout also makes it easier for community partners to host activities or set up booths that promote wellness, arts and civic engagement.

Growing Access and Community Partnerships

The move to Bridge Street wasn’t just about finding a prettier venue—it was driven by a deeper mission. One priority was improving food access for nearby neighborhoods where fresh produce can be harder to find. The new location also makes the market easier to reach, whether by bus, bike, car, or on foot. With this added accessibility came the chance to expand food assistance programs, including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, and WIC vouchers. The shift has also opened the door to stronger community partnerships, connecting the market with groups like the Asian Leaders Network, Creative Waco’s Levitt AMP music series, and other local nonprofits.

What Locals Are Saying

For many shoppers, the new spot has quickly become part of their weekly routine. The walkable layout, open lawn and music have added a new layer to the experience. Reese R., a local resident who visits most weekends, explained, “The new location for Waco’s Farmers Market is a space that really invites the community to not just stop by, but to engage in meaningful mornings of fellowship with one another.” She added, “The new walkways, the grassy patch for kids to play and dogs to run and the expansion of the market to allow for more booths have all made the farmers market better.”

Wacoan Mel E. also reflected on the improvements, saying, “As a local, I love how the Bridge Street area for the Waco Farmers Market has a stage, green spaces and ample parking. The new location has lovely picnic tables, shade and other seating options, which is a huge upgrade.”

She added that the new spot feels like more than just a market. “The Bridge Street location is such a thoughtful place for the community to gather and support one another,” she said.

A Vendor’s View

Along with local customers, vendors have had a front-row seat to the changes. Some have noticed shifts in foot traffic, while others have enjoyed the extra room for display and interaction with customers. Reflecting on the move, owner of Rocky Gutter Homestead, Adora C. said, “The Waco Downtown Farmers Market at the Bridge Street Plaza is the place to be on Saturdays. The music, the vibe, the food, the people. This is Waco.” The move has fostered community, which Adora C. noted, saying, “Once I set up and get a chance to look around it’s like a family reunion between vendors and customers alike.”

Andy Mendoza, owner of Tres Manos Coffee, echoed this sentiment and said, “We have enjoyed the Farmers Market’s new location. Friends and families have actual places to sit rather than just a curb. We have also noticed an increase in our sales, and we love that our setup is on paved sidewalks and not just a gravel parking lot.”

Looking Ahead

From the vendor tents to the grassy lawn, the past six months have been a mix of settling in and finding new ways to connect. The market still holds on to its small-town feel, even as it grows into a space with more amenities and possibilities.

The first six months at Bridge Street Plaza shows how a change in location can breathe new life into a community tradition. The market continues to be a place where Wacoans gather, not only to shop, but to slow down and spend time together. As the seasons change, so will the produce, the music and the memories made each Wednesday night and Saturday morning.

Market Details for Locals

• When:
  • Wednesdays (Spring & Fall only) –  5 to 8 p.m. 
  •  Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Where: 200 E. Bridge Street, Waco, TX 76704
• Food Access: SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks and WIC vouchers accepted