Season Kickoff at Traditional Spot Before Move to New Home
The Portage Zhang Farmers Market opened its 2026 season on Sunday, May 3, at the traditional City Hall parking lot location before relocating to a new permanent facility by the end of the month.
The market operates from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Sunday through mid-October 2026, offering seasonal produce, live music, food trucks, locally roasted coffee, and artisan goods to residents and visitors.
Until May 24 the market will be at Portage City Hall, then beginning May 31 will be held at their new permanent location at 125 East Centre Ave., according to WWMT.
The new $3.25 million market pavilion sits across from the Portage Zhang Senior Center at 203 East Centre Avenue and features 50 covered vendor stalls under three open-air pavilions. Additional uncovered space is available for tents and food trucks.
City COO Adam Herringa said the project was built on time and under budget, noting that the new facility costs taxpayers a fraction of what a conventional structure would have.
The project was funded by a $1.75 million state grant, plus a $1 million gift from Charles and Lynn Zhang, Herringa said. The last $750,000 came from the city budget.
The new space represents about 30% more coverage than the temporary setup used since 2017, with 50 stalls under the pavilion and additional uncovered areas for vendors and food trucks.
Growing Excitement Among Vendors
Market organizers have seen a significant increase in vendor applications for the 11th season of the Portage Zhang Farmers Market, which has operated since 2016.
Several vendors operate year-round and maintain online storefronts alongside their Sunday market presence. The market actively participates in food assistance programs including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, Senior Project Fresh, and WIC.
Each vendor will display a sign at their tent listing the programs they participate in, according to organizers.
The new location offers high visibility along Centre Avenue with ample parking nearby, placing the market within walking distance of the Portage District Library, multiple schools, and the Portage Central athletic fields.
Community Gathering Place
City leadership views the market as a key component of downtown Portage development, creating a central gathering place where residents can connect with neighbors and local businesses.
There's not a lot of places in Portage where you can leave your front door and be able to walk to a destination, Herringa said.
The market will continue to feature a local musician each Sunday, with rain or shine weather policy ensuring consistent operation throughout the summer season.
Site plans are currently in development for residential apartments surrounding Portage City Hall, including locations near Walgreens on Shaver Road and the former Panda Dynasty building.