I'm a fan of absolutely everything about this market, except the crowds.
Love the location. Madison is a beautiful city and the Capitol Square is a great backdrop for the amazing vendors and their wares. The event is extremely organized and I like how the foot traffic flows in the same direction. The market website is an excellent source of information and I love that I could elect to receive a newsletter each week with updates on the seasonal information and steady favorites.
The fringe vendors and food carts and flea market type tables across all four streets on the square add to the charm and vibe and value of the day. And the breakfast and brunch dining options all within walking distance, and some with a great view of the market, are plentiful.
The vendors are wonderful people that love to tell you as much as you'd like to know about their goods. Today I learned the best conditions for growing and foraging ramps, how allusive they can be, how they seed themselves and how short the season is. Great lesson.
Another important thing many vendors will share is best times to shop. When I arrived at 8:15am the market was in full swing and the crowd was shoulder to shoulder. I now know why the market opens at 7am - the first hour is the best hour to shop. Veteran market goers shared that the 12:30-2pm slot usually presents a thinner crowd, but also less selection. So pick your poison, early to rise, or claustrophobia inducing crowds.
And bring a big basket or bag because you'll find so many things, even some you didn't know you need.