GRAB YOUR TOTE bags and shopping lists! In collaboration with the Feel Good Group, Brookfield Properties is rolling out a new farmers market tomorrow, March 1, at the central gathering areas of its two largest Downtown Houston complexes. The move provides a much needed fresh-from-the-farm option for office workers, Downtown residents and visitors.

The market, organized with Casey Barbles, curator of the Rice Village and Heights Mercantile farmers markets, will continue through 2023, according to Brookfield. First up, tomorrow March 1, is the farmers market on Smith St. at Allen Center. The second new farmers market debuts March 8 on McKinney St. at Houston Center a few blocks from Discovery Green.

When it’s time to shop, expect to peruse locally sourced produce, baked goods and other food products and crafts. Sponsored by Activated by Brookfield Properties, the company’s tenant engagement platform, the events are part of an effort to build a sense of community, while providing experiences for employees. The markets come with the rise of remote work, and landlords and companies are creating places and programs that give people more reasons to show up.

Just in time for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the inaugural markets will have a cool custom hat-making booth from Magnolia Mercantile. Other vendors include Wood Duck Farmers, Cranky Carrot Juice Co, Sadie’s Select, Reishi & Health, Grammy’s Cookie Jar, Erbe Ranch, La Lydia, ABJ Farms, Jani’s Waffles, Lather and Co, and Migaloo Chocolatier.

To recap, the Smith Street Farmers Market at Allen Center, 1200 Smith St., will be held on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. The market kicks off March 1, then returns March 15. The McKinney Street Farmers Market, 1221 McKinney St., will be held on the second and fourth Wednesdays, March 8 and March 22. Hours are 10:30-1:30pm. To keep up on news, check out the Feel Good Group’s website and social media.

Casey Barbles

Allen Center