Best of Missouri Market returns to Missouri Botanical Garden this weekend
The event has been a St. Louis tradition for three decades
The 32nd annual Best of Missouri Market is back at the Missouri Botanical Garden this weekend, from Friday, Oct. 4, to Sunday, Oct. 6. This highly anticipated fall festival promises an unforgettable experience, showcasing the best in regional flavors, handcrafted treasures and live entertainment. This year’s event is set to be the largest yet, featuring 150 local vendors from across Missouri and Illinois.
Visitors can indulge in a delightful array of culinary offerings that highlight Missouri’s vibrant food scene. The food court, located in the upper east parking lot, will host a lineup of local food trucks and vendors each day. Attendees can savor St. Louis favorites like Wok O Taco, Grace Meat + Three, TreauX’s Cajun BBQ, and more. For those eager to explore new options, Heaterz Chicken, Honey Bee Tea and The MOOBile, in collaboration with Pierce Creek Cattle Co., will be making their market debut this year. Vegan and vegetarian options will be available from Mylk and Hummus and Pizza Head, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking to enjoy local libations, head to the Craft Beer and Cocktail Court, where you’ll find a selection of Missouri’s finest brews and beverages including Switchgrass Spirits’ artisanal whiskey, the celebrated mead from Mead Hall and craft beers from Rockwell Beer Co.
The Makers Stage will feature presentations from local experts, offering tips and insights on topics ranging from the art of charcuterie to botanical sketching, all designed to help you embrace the fall season. 1220 Spirits will also host a special presentation featuring their new Violet Gin, created in collaboration with the Missouri Botanical Garden, giving visitors an exclusive opportunity to learn more about this unique spirit.
The festival will include live music performances from local artists each day, featuring acts like Joe Park Trio, Rachel Brandt & Bradley Johnson, The Yard Darts and more. Families can rejoice as the beloved Kids' Corner returns, offering a variety of fun activities for the little ones, including a petting zoo, face painting, balloon art and more. Visitors can also explore sustainable pumpkin decorating with Perennial STL. As Jessika Eidson, public information officer for the Missouri Botanical Garden, notes, “All of these vendors are small businesses, so when you come out, you’re supporting local businesses.”
The Best of Missouri Market runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Members of the Botanical Garden will have access to an exclusive members-only shopping hour from 8 to 9 a.m. on Saturday. Tickets can be purchased online or at the festival. For additional information, including a complete list of vendors, event schedules and parking details, visit the Missouri Botanical Garden website.
