The Word on the Street: Bridge Street Farmers Market

East Waco is a fascinating and vibrant neighborhood located just across the iconic Suspension Bridge on the Brazos.

The area is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved through the years. With its stunning architecture, diverse communities, and up and coming new businesses, East Waco is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best that Waco has to offer.

Tiny tot Aurora welcomes visitors to the night market on Bridge Street. Photo courtesy of Waco Downtown Farmers Market.

Bridge Street Plaza (200 E. Bridge St), a new two-acre development that include walking paths, green space, seating and areas for vendors, now plays host to a Wednesday evening initiative from the Waco Downtown Farmers Market.

The Bridge Street Farmers Market operates every Wednesday evening from 5-8pm, a secondary market to the Saturday morning farmers market hosted in front of the McLennan County Courthouse.

Gardner’s Gardens offers succulents at a variety of sizes and prices. Photo courtesy of Waco Downtown Farmers Market.

“While launching a new market at a new time in a new location has provided plenty of fun hurdles, I'm still excited to bring the community together with fresh food, evening entertainment, wellness programming - and at the same time introduce many Wacoans to a new gathering space in East Waco,” said Bethel Erickson, Director of the Waco Downtown Farmers Market

The East Waco edition makes space for about 25 vendors each week: usually 3-5 food trucks, 4-5 produce (fruit, veggies, microgreens) stands, plants, prepared foods and artisan food products (jams, baked goods, seasonings), body care items, and more.

Each week, Market leaders host different neighborhood-based organizations that highlight the good work happening inside of East Waco and how community members can become more involved.

“I was one of the biggest people pushing for this.” said Jeanette Bell, as she sat under a bright orange tent representing (NERNA) The North East Riverside Neighborhood Association. This area she has called home for 30 years.

Da’ Shack, a nursery and gardening store in East Waco, sells organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, and plants. A local musician, Gabriel RiCharde, entertains in the background. Photo courtesy of Waco Downtown Farmers Market.

“It’s good seeing everyone having fun together, eating, talking, laughing, and networking,” Bell said.

This event dovetails with NERNA’s mission to create an ‘enjoyable, livable, walkable and sustainable neighborhood’— with a goal to improve neighbors and overall quality of life.

The Bridge Street Farmers Market has secured a lease at Bridge Street Plaza until the end of the year. May 17th was the official ribbon cutting with local chambers, an event that featured live music and rotating wellness activities such as yoga and hip hop step aerobics. The addition of live music and fitness classes makes it a great way to engage with the community and enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables, learn new skills, or just have a fun night out, the Bridge Street Farmers Market is definitely worth checking out!