This summer, we’re exploring Council Bluffs through firsthand adventures — one local gem at a time. Follow along as Emily Newby, an intern with the Council Bluffs CVB, shares authentic experiences from trails to treats, and everything in between.
Fresh finds, sweet treats, and local charm take over downtown CB every Thursday night.
There’s something special about a community coming together on a warm evening—and the Council Bluffs Farmers Market is a perfect example. Held every Thursday from May to September along Pearl Street on the north side of Bayliss Park, this event blends the best of local flavor, creativity, and small-town charm in the heart of downtown CB.
I arrived a little before the market’s official start time to find the street already bustling with energy. I took a walk through the rows of white tents to get a feel for everything before diving into the details at each stand. Unsurprisingly, the produce booths were the busiest—with shoppers lining up for vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, juicy melons, corn, and potatoes. It was heartening to see how much the community values fresh, locally grown food and the farmers who provide it.
But it’s not just fruits and veggies that make this market sing. I spotted a make-your-own bouquet station, a booth full of hand-crocheted creatures, and even a vendor offering dog accessories. There was a little something for everyone—whether you were shopping for your pantry, your pup, or a unique handmade gift.
Of course, I couldn’t leave without indulging in something sweet. Between the breads, macarons, cookies, and Dutch letters, choosing just one treat was no easy task. I finally went for a Scotcharoo from Mad Ox Bakery—a Midwest classic with a peanut-buttery crunch and that irresistible chocolate-butterscotch topping. I took it to a bench in Bayliss Park, where I could enjoy the treat while watching the colorful fountain and families playing yard games nearby.
Even as the sun began to set, the market stayed lively with shoppers of all ages supporting local vendors. It’s clear this isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a community gathering that celebrates local talent, local food, and the joy of being together on a summer evening in Council Bluffs.
