MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The Rutherford County Farmers Market at the Lane Agri‑Park, 315 John R. Rice Boulevard, will welcome shoppers this Tuesday (8/25/2026) afternoon and evening from 2 until 7 p.m. This long‑running producer‑only market, operated by the UT Extension and Rutherford County, is now in its 51st year of offering fresh produce, meats, flowers, baked goods, and handmade items from local growers.
FREE Bingo Included This Tuesday
Farmers Market Manager Hannah Bleam told WGNS, “We are hosting a free BINGO night this Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. for people of all ages. We will host a few rounds to accommodate everyone and provide a round for just kids.” She encouraged residents to think of the local farmers market as they plan their groceries this week and stop by after school or work to pick up the in‑season favorites still coming in strong. As Bleam often reminds shoppers, every visit supports LOCAL farms.
How Evenings Came About
For decades, the market operated only from spring through October, but last year the producers expanded to a year‑round schedule. After a successful fall and winter season, they added several afternoon–evening markets. This month, all Tuesdays have been 2–7 p.m., while Fridays remain the traditional 7 a.m. to noon.
Bleam is expected to announce soon how well the afternoon and evening markets have performed. Attending this Tuesday’s market is more than a shopping trip—it’s essentially casting a vote for whether these later hours should continue in future seasons.
The benefits of an afternoon–evening market are clear. It reaches an entirely different audience than the early‑morning crowd, including teachers, office workers, parents juggling school routines, students, and anyone who simply isn’t a morning person. Evening markets also create a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere where shoppers can stop by after work, enjoy special activities, and make the market part of their weekly routine.
Tuggle Touts Expanded Benefits
Rutherford County Agricultural Extension Service Director Anthony Tuggle notes that evening hours increase sales for farmers by connecting them with shoppers who never make it to morning markets. The later schedule also aligns better with modern lifestyles, allows space for special programming, and often provides more comfortable temperatures during Tennessee’s warm summer months.
Once again, the Farmers Market at Lane Agri‑Park will be open Tuesday from 2 to 7 p.m., with free bingo beginning at 5:30 p.m. Families, neighbors, and local‑food fans are invited to come out and enjoy an evening of community fun.
