Fresh Flavors & Rolling Feasts: Farmers’ Markets & Food Trucks in Lincoln

by Sriyani Tidball •   photos by Tom Tidball

There’s no better way to explore Lincoln’s vibrant local flavor than by wandering through a bustling farmers’ market or grabbing a bite from one of the city’s inventive food trucks. From spring through winter, Lincoln celebrates the seasons with open-air markets bursting with fresh produce, artisanal goods, music, and community connection — while food trucks keep the city buzzing with globally inspired eats and Midwestern comfort food on the go.

Lincoln’s Must-Visit Farmers’ Markets

Saturday Haymarket Farmers’ Market
Q & Canopy Street
Saturdays, 8 AM–12 PM | May–mid-October
downtownlincoln.org/haymarket/farmers-market

A true Lincoln tradition for nearly four decades, the Saturday Haymarket Farmers’ Market is a downtown cornerstone. Setup begins as early as 6:00 a.m., but the market officially opens with a whistle at 8:00 a.m. Browse early, claim your goodies, and return to purchase once the bell sounds.

Stretching across several blocks in the Historic Haymarket, the market offers a diverse range of products, from fresh vegetables and homemade bread to pottery, soaps, and fresh-cut flowers. Stop by Iron Horse Park for live, family-friendly performances from 9:00 –11:00 a.m. and snap a photo by the iconic retired train engine.

With food stalls dishing up meals from popular Lincoln restaurants and downtown cafes open for lunch, this market offers a full morning of flavor and fun.

Sunday Farmers’ Market at College View
4801 Prescott Avenue
Sundays, 10 AM–2 PM | May–October
sundayfarmersmarket.org

Smaller, quieter, and producer-only, this south Lincoln market emphasizes locally made goods and deeper community connections. With around 50 vendors, you’ll find organic produce, local honey, handmade soaps, and more.

Arrive early for a 10:00 AM yoga or meditation session and stay for live music from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM. Don’t miss the Master Gardener booth—perfect for aspiring green thumbs.

In late fall, the market transforms into the Holiday Harvest Market, offering one-of-a-kind gifts, baked treats, and festive cheer in November and December.

Fallbrook Farmers’ Market
600 Fallbrook Boulevard
Every other Thursday, 4–7 PM
Mid-June–Mid-October
thursdayfarmersmarket.org

Looking for an evening market? This northwest Lincoln gem is a relaxed, family-friendly favorite. Located in a lush green space, it offers a neighborhood feel with 20 vendors, a bounce house, lawn games, and ample space for kids to roam.

Whether you’re shopping for supper ingredients or just soaking in the community vibes, Fallbrook is the place to unwind after work.

East Campus
Discovery Days & Farmers Market
East Campus Mall (UNL)
Second Saturdays, 10 AM–2 PM | June–August
discoverydays.unl.edu

More than just a farmers’ market, Discovery Days is a hands-on, family-friendly exploration of food, science, and sustainability. Alongside approximately 25 vendors, you’ll find STEM booths, garden plant giveaways, Master Gardener consultations, 4-H activities, and insect-themed fun from UNL’s entomology department.

Don’t forget to cool down with a scoop of ice cream from the nearby UNL Dairy Store — an East Campus staple!

Year-Round Meat Markets

Craving high-quality, Nebraska-raised meats? Lincoln’s specialty butcher shops offer everything from grass-fed beef to gourmet sausages. Here are a few top picks:

• Leon’s Gourmet Grocer – 2200 Winthrop Road (a Lincoln classic)
• The Mercato – Certified Piedmontese – 4841 N 84th Street & 8601 S 30th Street
• Fareway Meat Market – 3033 S 84th Street
• Del Gould Meats – 3520 N 20th Street

Lincoln’s Food Truck Scene: Flavors on the Move

Lincoln’s food truck scene is diverse, delicious, and always on the go. From tacos and waffles to coffee and BBQ, these mobile kitchens serve it all — often showing up at farmers’ markets, festivals, business parks, and neighborhood block parties.

Here are some local favorites:

D’Leon’s Taco Truck
Tacos that taste just like their dine-in restaurantsfast, fresh, and full of flavor.
(402) 802-4846
adeleonsmexicanrestaurant@yahoo.com

Kouzina Food Truck
Greek street food by The Parthenon. Find them on Facebook for current locations.
www.facebook.com/kouzinafoodtruck

Muchachos
New Mexican BBQ fusion — brisket, hatch chile queso, and purpose-driven food.
nick.maestas@yomuchacho.com | yomuchacho.com

Mary Ellen’s Food for the Soul
Soul Food on the go, serving up the same love as their acclaimed restaurant.
maryellens.com

New Day Coffee + Smoothie Truck
Smoothies and espresso drinks to brighten your day. Available for events and pop-ups.
www.newday.cafe

Papi Churros
Sweet and savory — don’t miss their tacos and
churros at the Haymarket Market (May–Aug).
www.facebook.com/papichurroslnk

The Waffleman Food Trailer
Belgian waffles, sausage, and Waffle Dawgs
(yes, it’s a waffle on a stick!).
wafflemanbill@gmail.com

Want more food trucks?
Explore even more local favorites at:

lincoln.org/restaurants/food-trucks

roaminghunger.com/food-trucks/lincoln-ne

From Farm to Fork—Lincoln Style

Whether you’re on the hunt for heirloom tomatoes, homemade sourdough, or just looking for a great bite on the go, Lincoln’s farmers’ markets and food trucks offer a delicious way to support locals and connect with the community. So, bring your reusable bags, an empty stomach, and a sense of adventure — there’s something fresh waiting for you in every corner of the city.