Farmers market stalls in the city and suburbs are beginning to fill with the bounty of the first crops of spring, from asparagus to spinach to ramps, the short-seasoned and much-sought-after alliums. Despite the below-normal temperatures in recent weeks, markets will open as planned and bring visitors all the long-awaited fresh fruits and produce from Midwestern farms. A number of markets launched the season the first week of May, including Green City Market in Lincoln Park, celebrating its 20th anniversary, and 51st Wood Street, Andersonville, Evergreen Park and Park Forest markets, as well as both Evanston locations, Downtown and Ridgeville. The city launches its market season Thursday with the opening of Daley Plaza market, while most other markets in Chicago and suburbs open later in May and in the following weeks.

Some new markets join the roster this season: a multi-day, year-round Farm on Ogden Farm Stand, 3555 W. Ogden Ave., and markets at the United Human Services Center, 1809 W. 51st St., which opened May 1; Back of the Yards Community Market, 51st and Throop streets; multiple Plant Chicago markets; North Park Community Market, 5510 N. Christiana Ave.; Clarendon Hills; and the East Grand Farmers & Artisans Market in Gurnee. They join more than 180 markets in the city and suburbs that offer freshly picked produce, organic selections and even artisan specialties of all types.

Below are the opening dates, hours and locations for Chicago and suburban markets. Several have changed location or hours. As indicated, some city markets accept LINK. Many markets will be off on the Fourth of July.