Serving Northwest Indiana
FARMED
& FORGED
Coordinated through our nonprofit, this producers-only market in Northwest Indiana brings together local farmers, artisans, restaurants and nonprofits in one vibrant, community-rooted experience.
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a market with a mission
Coordinated through our nonprofit, The Collective Events, Inc., Farmed & Forged is more than a market—it’s a place where community, creativity and local flavor come together. Launched by The Collective, this signature market celebrates small businesses, artisans, producers and growers who are dedicated to their craft and their community.
what you'll find
Every market is a blend of farm-fresh produce, handmade goods and unique creations forged right here in Northwest Indiana. From local farmers and bakers to makers and artists, Farmed & Forged brings together the best our region has to offer.
why it matters
When you shop Farmed & Forged, you’re not just buying—you’re investing in local entrepreneurs and helping build a stronger, more connected community. The market also supports food accessibility initiatives, including SNAP/EBT benefits, so everyone can share in the experience.
HAMMOND, IN
Thursdays • 3PM-7?30PM CST
Dan RAbin Plaza, 425 Sibley
MAY 28th -SEPTEMBER 24th 2026
NONPROFIT PARTNERS
At every Farmed & Forged market, we spotlight a local nonprofit making a difference in our region. Each organization receives a free booth and pro bono marketing to help share their mission with the community. Thanks to vendor donations, info booth collections, and shopper support, we raise both awareness and funds to further their work.
When you shop the market, you’re not only supporting small businesses, you’re helping local nonprofits expand their impact, too.
SPECIAL MARKETS
JUNE-SEPT
2026
Join us for special market dates once a month at each location celebrating local food, community and creativity!
- Hammond | Third Thursday of the month
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Michigan City | Second Saturday of the month
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La Porte | Second Sunday of the Month
JUNE | WELLNESS
Nourish your body and mind with fitness demos, local wellness vendors, and fresh, whole foods that make feeling good easy and accessible.
JULY | KIDS
Bring the whole family for hands-on activities, games, and fun designed to spark curiosity and get kids excited about local food and community.
AUGUST | ART
Experience creativity in full color with live art, local makers, and interactive exhibits that celebrate the incredible talent in our community.
SEPTEMBER | FARMED TO FORK
Taste the best of Northwest Indiana as local chefs and farmers come together to transform fresh, local ingredients into unforgettable bites.
CURIOUS CHEFS PROGRAM
Nurturing young minds through hands-on food education
Curious Chefs is a free program from The Collective designed to spark curiosity in kids while teaching them about food, nutrition, and community. Through fun, interactive activities, children learn:
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Where food comes from
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Why fresh food matters for their health and future
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How to explore new foods with confidence and curiosity
Every session combines education with play, empowering kids to make healthy choices and discover the joy of fresh, local food.
HOW YOUR SUPPORT HELPS
Your donation makes this program possible by providing:
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Hands-on learning activities at our markets
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Vouchers for kids to pick out free produce and explore healthy options
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Inclusive access for families of all income levels
We believe food education should be fun, empowering, and accessible to every child. With your support, Curious Chefs is inspiring the next generation of eaters, cooks, and community leaders across Northwest Indiana.
WHEN & WHERE
Curious Chefs happens the special market day of each month at Farmed & Forged markets. Bring your little ones, and let them learn, explore and taste their way through the market!
We're proud to accept SNAP benefits and offer TRIPLE matching at our markets!
HOW IT WORKS
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Easy to Use: Simply stop by our market info booth to swipe your EBT card and receive vouchers accepted by participating vendors.
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Affordable Access to Local Eats: Use your vouchers to buy healthy items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, eggs, breads, herbs, and more direct from local producers.
Match Programs That Maximize Your SNAP Value
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Double Up Indiana: Every $1 spent on SNAP for fresh produce earns a $1 match up to $20 per market visit. (in collaboration with NWI Food Council
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SNAP Community Match Fund: Powered by donations from our community and a grant from Health Foundation of LaPorte in 2025, this program also matches $1 for $1 up to $20 on SNAP-eligible purchases.
Imagine this: a $20 SNAP purchase turns into $60 worth of vouchers giving you triple the purchasing power at the market!
SNAP Benefits
TRIPLE YOUR SNAP DOLLARS AT FARMED & FORGED •
ONE MATCH PER MARKET VISIT
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You can receive a SNAP match once per market day, and yes, you're welcome to visit multiple Farmed & Forged markets throughout the season.
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Don’t Use It? Save It! If you don’t spend all your vouchers in one visit, you can bring them back later in the season. Just be sure to spend your vouchers before the season ends
Reminder: Vouchers must be used at the same Farmed & Forged market where they were issued. Each one is tied to a specific location, so be sure to redeem it at that market.
Want to get involved?
BECOME A VENDOR
Showcase your products and connect directly with the community at Farmed & Forged.
CULTIVATED BY OUR SPONSORS, ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
Farmed & Forged is more than a market it’s a movement to uplift local small businesses, families, and nonprofits by creating inclusive, welcoming spaces in La Porte and Michigan City. With the support of our generous sponsors, we’re making fresh, local food accessible to all while growing a stronger, more connected community.
Michigan City Farmed & Forged is presented by The City of Michigan City
La Porte Farmed & Forged is presented by the La Porte Urban Enterprise Association
HAMMOND Farmed & Forged is presented by HAMmond development coporation