Park Ridge Farmers Market Opens for 2026 Season Without Parking Lot, Maintains Popularity
The Park Ridge Farmers Market has commenced its 2026 season, marking the first year without the use of the AT&T parking lot at 36 S. Prairie Avenue. Despite initial concerns about the absence of this parking space, the market has successfully adapted by shifting slightly westward towards Garden, adjacent to Cumberland Park. This new setup allows visitors to enjoy live music and prepared food from nearby vendors while seated at picnic tables. The market, which has been a staple in the community for 36 years, continues to feature many of its long-standing vendors, with only minor changes in vendor participation each year. Organizers, including market co-masters Karen Grunschel and Stephanie Goodrich, express excitement about the market's return and are open to making small adjustments based on feedback. Vendors like Nick Cataudella, who operates a hot dog cart, and Kathy Tidey of Tidey Farms, report steady customer traffic and satisfaction with the new layout. 
