Harvesting the Heart of our Region

August 2025

photo courtesy of Visit Billings

A Culinary Journey Through August's Farmers Markets

August is when the bounty of summer reaches its peak across south-central Montana. Regional markets overflow with sun-ripened produce, homegrown herbs, and handmade goods that reflect the heart of our land and the people who nourish it. Whether you’re strolling through a Saturday market downtown, picking up pre-ordered produce, or discovering hidden gems in nearby towns, there’s no better time to eat local, cook seasonally, and savor what’s fresh.

Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market:

A SATURDAY MORNING TRADITION

Downtown comes alive every Saturday morning with this iconic market stretching across multiple blocks. Expect juicy peaches, corn still warm from the morning sun, and everything from locally roasted coffee to freshly baked bread.

WHEN: Saturdays from July 19 through August 4, 8 AM–Noon, rain or shine

WHERE: Downtown N. Broadway

DON’T MISS: Early tomatoes, handmade jams, and street musicians adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Healthy By Design Gardeners’ Market:

FRESHNESS WITH PURPOSE

Thursday evenings in South Park come alive as this market focuses on community health and food access. It’s SNAP- and WIC-friendly, partnering with Billings Parks & Recreation to create an inclusive space where everyone can bring home fresh, nutritious food.

WHEN: Thursdays from June 12 to October 2, from 4 to 6 PM.

WHERE: South Park

DON’T MISS: Youth-grown veggies, wellness booths, and occasional cooking demos.

Bountiful Baskets:

AFFORDABLE PRODUCE WITH A COMMUNITY TWIST

For those who love to meal prep or crave variety, Bountiful Baskets offers a co-op-style produce pickup every other Saturday. Participants contribute and receive a generous mix of seasonal fruits and veggies, often enough to inspire a week of creative cooking.

HOW IT WORKS: Order online, then pick up

WHEN: Friday Evenings, 5:30 PM

WHERE: Faith Chapel

PRO TIP: Bring a laundry basket or large tote to make hauling your haul easier.

Yellowstone Valley Food Hub:

LOCAL FOOD, YEAR-ROUND

This grower-owned cooperative makes shopping local simple and accessible with weekly online ordering from over 35 Montana farmers, ranchers, bakers, and makers. From grass-fed meats to seasonal vegetables, fresh dairy, honey, and more, the Food Hub curates a diverse selection of regional products all in one place.

WAYS TO SHOP:

Shop in Person: Open to the public every Friday from 10 AM–3 PM at 2115 Lampman Drive, Ste. A, Billings.
Order for Pickup or Delivery: Place your order online by 11:50 PM on Tuesday for Thursday delivery in Billings and Laurel or pickup at one of six locations around Billings and Red Lodge.

HOW IT WORKS: Create a free account. Shop exactly what you want, no subscription required, and enjoy fresh, regional food all year long.

Celebrate the harvest, support your neighbors, and let every meal tell a story of community and season.

Originally printed in the July 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Check this article out in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

Grill This: Bison Burgers with Berry Sauce and Boursin Cheese

It is summer in Montana - time to fire up the grill and try something new! This recipe was inspired by a local burger place that rhymes with five. Yet, it has its own characteristics: a juicy bison patty infused with Italian herbs and garlic, topped with a sweet-and-spicy mixed berry sauce and a generous smear of Boursin cheese. It is a burger that feels wild and fun, like a hike ending at a gastropub."

Meal Prep & More

Living in a fast-paced world, it’s easy to see the benefits of meal prepping and why the fast-food industry is so successful. While it is an extremely convenient option, it eventually takes a toll on your wallet and health.

Bake This: Chocolate-Covered Madeleines

Madeleines are traditional French cookies originating from Lorraine. Their delicate, scalloped shape and crisp edges make them an elegant choice for a Mother’s Day afternoon snack alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

The Sister's Behind Bee Bar Billings

There’s a new buzz in Billings, and it’s coming from a sleek horse trailer that’s been transformed into one of the most talked-about mobile drink carts. Sisters Casey and Carly, the creative force behind Bee Bar Billings, are shaking things up with custom lemonades, mocktails, and cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Simple Ways to Help End Hunger in Our City

It’s estimated that 1 in 9 adults in Montana face hunger, and that number is even more staggering among children at 1 in 6.