By Leslie Kilgore EBS STAFF
The Big Sky Farmers Market is back for another summer season, bringing local food, art, music and community gatherings to Big Sky Town Center every Wednesday evening, June through September.
Leading the market for the first time this year is Julia Wilder, the new Town Center events coordinator. Originally from Charleston, South Carolina, Wilder brings experience working with small businesses, environmental organizations, indoor farming operations and farmers’ markets. Before jumping into her new role, she worked as an event coordinator at Montage Big Sky.
Now overseeing one of Big Sky’s most beloved summer activities, Wilder is focused on supporting local vendors, creating meaningful community connections and continuing to grow the market while honoring its long-standing traditions.
Explore Big Sky caught up with Wilder to learn more about her first season leading the market and what visitors can expect this summer.
Explore Big Sky: What attracted you to leading the Big Sky Farmers Market?
Julia Wilder: I’ve always been passionate about supporting local businesses and being involved in my community. I’ve experienced farmers’ markets as a vendor myself, and I love the connections they create between makers, entrepreneurs and community members. One of my goals is to continue growing those connections while expanding the market’s reach, especially by attracting more produce vendors and increasing access to fresh, local goods.
EBS: What have you learned about the market’s history and impact on the community?
JW: I’ve learned how deeply valued the market is by locals. There’s a real sense of pride from both vendors and attendees. Erik Morrison has been a tremendous resource in sharing the market’s history, and it’s clear this has become one of Big Sky’s most cherished and family-friendly summer traditions.
EBS: What’s new for the 2026 season?
JW: We’re welcoming several new vendors this year, including local entrepreneurs launching new businesses. We’re also expanding live music offerings around Town Center and partnering with YES Compost as part of our goal to move toward a zero-waste market.
EBS: How are you balancing some of the market’s traditions with new ideas?
JW: Our long-standing vendors are the heart of the market, and supporting them remains a top priority.
At the same time, we’re creating opportunities for new vendors and more interactive experiences that encourage people to connect and engage with the community.
EBS: What role do you think the farmers’ market plays in supporting local businesses?
JW: The market provides an important platform for local farmers, artists and small businesses.
In a place like Big Sky, it reminds people how many incredible products and services are available right here in our community and encourages residents and visitors to shop local.
EBS: Can you tell us about this year’s vendor lineup?
JW: We have a great mix of returning vendors and newcomers, including woodworkers, artists, jewelry makers and food vendors from Big Sky, West Yellowstone and beyond. About 220 vendors will participate throughout the season, and more than half are local to the Big Sky community.
EBS: Going forward this season, how do you hope people experience the market each week?
JW: I hope visitors discover something, or someone new every week. Whether it’s meeting a vendor, trying a new product, or starting a conversation, those connections are what make small-town communities special.
EBS: What challenges and opportunities come with organizing a market in Big Sky?
JW: Weather, traffic and coordinating with more than 200 vendors all require flexibility and planning.
But the opportunity to bring people together in such a beautiful setting makes it all worthwhile.
EBS: How has the community responded so far this season?
JW: The response has been overwhelmingly positive from both vendors and attendees. As a first-year market manager, that support has meant a lot, and I’m especially grateful to Erik Morrison and the team that helped make the transition possible.
EBS:What is your vision for the future of the market?
JW: I want the market to continue growing as an inclusive, vibrant space that reflects the diversity of our community. I’d love to expand the variety of vendors, particularly produce growers, and introduce more interactive experiences that help people connect with the stories behind local businesses.
EBS: What should first-time visitors expect?
JW: Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere filled with local goods, food, music and great people.
Every Wednesday, Town Center comes alive, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the energy and creativity of the Big Sky community.
