Ways to Celebrate Organic Month!

September marks National Organic Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the benefits of organic food and sustainable living. For residents of Southwest Michigan, this month offers a great opportunity to explore the many ways to support local agriculture and make healthier food choices. From dining at farm-to-table restaurants that showcase the region’s freshest produce to participating in community gardens, there are countless ways to get involved. Year-round farmers' markets make it easy to access organic and locally sourced foods, even as the seasons change. Additionally, many local stores specialize in organic products, ensuring that you can continue to support local growers and enjoy high-quality, sustainable food all year long. Here is your personal guide to some of these organic opportunities near you!

South Haven

Nature’s Country Cupboard
Nestled in downtown South Haven, this store offers specialty foods and supplements. The focus here is on improving diets by supplying vitamins and nutrients in their products. This family-owned business also wants you living a peaceful life with their aromatherapy products along with herbs, natural remedies, and more. It’s a unique store where you can even find tons of home decor to reinvent your living space.

Barden’s Farm Market
Farm, greenhouse, bakery, you name it! Barden’s has it all. With locations in South Haven and Saugatuck, this is the lakeshore's organic gem. Everything is farm to market so you know you’re getting it fresh. The markets run through October so check it out before it's gone for the year!
 
Saugatuck/Douglas

Everyday People Cafe
This farm to table experience offers a fancier, creative cuisine. They use the freshest, local ingredients to put together the finest quality food they can. This spot is in downtown Douglas and offers Social Hours where there's abundant drink and food specials!

Holland Farmers Market 
Just north of Saugatuck in Holland is a year-round farmers market! In a climate like Michigans, these are hard to come by, so it’s worth the trip. They offer Michigan grown products only and you’ll find a large variety of vendors. The Holland Civic Centre Place will keep you warm so you can stay organic throughout the winter!

St. Joseph

Houndstooth Restaurant
Houndstooth is a farm-to-table restaurant near Silver Beach that combines familiar ingredients with innovative flavors. Its seasonal menu changes regularly, ensuring that there’s always something new to try. This spot is a great choice for a dining experience that celebrates local, sustainable cuisine.

Muskegon

Muskegon Farmers Market 
This year-round market in Muskegon is more than just a place to buy fresh produce. It offers a vibrant experience with artisans, crafters, and various organic vendors. Open three days a week until November, and on Saturdays during the winter, it’s a great destination for both shopping and socializing.

Kalamazoo/Portage

A La Ferme 
Recently rebranded, A La Ferme in Kalamazoo offers a delightful combination of live music and farm-to-table dining. Their commitment to sourcing local ingredients ensures that every meal is fresh and flavorful. The venue is also equipped to host events, making it a memorable spot for gatherings and special occasions. 

Kalamazoo Farmers Market (November)
It may not be year round, but Kalamazoo offers a farmers market that will last through November. Recurring Saturdays, get some of Southwest Michigan’s freshest produce here. For another month there is even Tuesday and Thursday Mini-Markets! This market is perfect for stocking up on seasonal fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers.

Battle Creek

Horrocks Farm Market
Horrocks is one of a kind farm market styled grocery store that gives shoppers entertainment, food, and drink during their errand run. Almost daily there is live music performing, turning it from a typical grocery trip to a popular date night spot. There is a restaurant type section where you can order food with a full bar! None of this even begins to cover the extensive organic products they offer either. It’s truly a one stop shop for fun and health!

Grand Rapids

Cafe Mamo
This Grand Rapids restaurant epitomizes the farm-to-table philosophy, with a menu that changes weekly based on what fresh ingredients are available. With a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, Cafe Mamo is a great place for those seeking delicious, sustainable meals.

Green Wagon Farm
The Green Wagon Farm is a one-stop shop for all things produce. They even guarantee fresh vegetables year round! You can find their offerings at their farm in Grand Rapids, but they also sell products wholesale to local grocers and have stands in local farmers markets.

Embrace National Organic Month by exploring these wonderful local options and making more sustainable, healthy choices in your everyday life! Take this month as a chance to try something new—experiment with organic recipes at home or introduce your family and friends to the benefits of organic living. Every small step toward embracing a more sustainable lifestyle helps build a stronger, healthier community. So, let’s celebrate National Organic Month together, supporting our local growers and savoring the freshest, most nutritious foods Southwest Michigan has to offer. Here's to a month of delicious discoveries and positive change!