Explore. Discover. Connect. THRIVE.
The Pure Markette Community Circle
As you enter the Markette, you’ll note dozens of vendor tents and booths – along with what makes the Pure Markette unique:
The Pure Markette Community Circle.
Envision ten bright blue Pure Markette tents where over 30 community partners and area nonprofits host classes, demos, special events, entertainment, and more. Offerings change week to week, so be sure to check the calendar weekly.
THRIVE
We call our programming THRIVE – which stands for Tailored Health Resource Initiatives Vital to Everyone.
The Community Circle is an easy way to connect to resources and contacts in our community, brush up or learn new skills, sign up for a program or event of interest, learn about year-round offerings, take your health and wellness to a new level, explore, and HAVE FUN.
Tailored Health Resource Initiatives Vital to Everyone
Our expanded 2025 THRIVE programming includes:
COOKING DEMOS
As part of the Discover Michigan Fresh program, learn new ways to prepare healthy, tasty foods, try new recipes, and learn more about product labeling.
EXERCISE CLASSES
Feel like taking a walk on the adjacent Pere Markette State Trail, checking out chair yoga, learning more about weight resistance to build muscles, or connecting to area resources, we got you covered.
MARKETTE TOURS
Stop by the Welcome Center to learn the lay of the land and day’s offerings.
NUTRITION CLASSES
Discover ways to fuel your body with great tasting, healthy foods and beverages, whether looking to ramp up on proteins; decrease sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats; tackle aching joints or craft a feel better plan.
FARMACY RX
In partnership with Family Health Care, we’re launching a Produce Prescription Program for eligible Lake and Newaygo County residents, 18 years and older, who are facing chronic illnesses and have limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables. This is a referral prescription program. For details, contact your Family Health Care provider.
DIY DEMOS
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and build a raised garden bed, compost bin, or rain barrel; preserve your fresh fruits and veggies for off season savory goodness – and cost savings.
FARM FIELD TRIPS
Join us on a trip to a neighboring farm to learn more about how your food is grown – and depending on the trip, harvest to take home.
SAFETY CLASSES
From food safety to fire, forestry, first aid, sun and fun – our experts will host classes throughout the season.
FAMILY FUN AREA
Enjoy old fashioned games like mini golf, corn hole, giant Jenga, sidewalk chalk and more while relaxing with a treat from the Markette, area business, or food truck.
POP CLUB
The Power of Produce Children’s Passport Program is back, with even more fun children’s activities scheduled. This scavenger hunt-type program enables kids to earn stamps on their passport – ten stamps equal $10 in POP tokens to spend at the Markette on fresh fruits and veggies.
COMMUNITY OFFERINGS
Our partners’ offerings cover all ages and stages of life, from early childhood development to older adult services.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Throughout the season we’ll have live entertainment, music, and more. Plus, we have several special recognition events scheduled:
Caregivers: Wed., June 18 – Calling all educators, healthcare workers, daycare providers, first responders … check in at the Welcome Center and we’ll recognize your community contributions with ‘shop on us’ tokens, good at all vendor booths.
Military service members and veterans : Wed., July 2 – our way of thanking our military heroes for their service. Stop by the Welcome Center and pick up your ‘thank you tokens’ to use at all vendor booths
Older Adults: Wed., July 23 – 65 years+ - this day is for you! Swing by the Welcome Center and pick up your tokens.
STUFF THE BUS: Wed., Aug. 6 – Let’s see if we can top last years $1300+ donation to Baldwin Community Schools for needed school supplies and technology. Stay tuned for details.
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A COMMUNITY CIRCLE PARTNER?
We invite all area nonprofits to submit an application to join us! Political or religious activities or solicitation are prohibited. We will confirm availability and reserve a tent, table, and chairs at no cost to your organization, once approved.