The Green Street Pavilion will mark four decades as a community gathering place for local agriculture and small businesses when the Athens Farmers Market opens its 2026 season on May 5.
Operated by Athens Main Street, the market will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community festivities, highlighting the pavilion’s long-standing role in supporting farmers, artisans and local commerce since 1986.
“We’ll kick off the season with a ribbon cutting and complimentary cake as we celebrate 40 wonderful years,” said Market Manager Kat Greene.
The market, located at 409 Green Street, will run every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., offering locally grown produce, prepared foods and handcrafted goods. As an Alabama Certified Farmers Market, all products are sourced from North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley.
Organizers said the pavilion, recently renovated ahead of the new season, continues to serve as more than a marketplace, functioning as a hub for community connection and local engagement.
Opening day will also feature live music from Dr. Mary Crowell, performing from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., with support from sponsors including Dream Key Real Estate, First Metro Bank and Walmart Athens.
In addition to the Tuesday market, the popular Saturday market is scheduled to return June 6, operating from 8 a.m. to noon through Sept. 26.
Officials said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the market’s legacy while reinforcing its mission to support local farmers, small businesses and the broader community.
