Project for Public Spaces is thrilled to partner with our co-host, the Milwaukee Public Market, to bring the 12th International Public Markets Conference to Milwaukee, WI, USA, on June 12-14, 2025! Milwaukee is known for its dynamic public markets scene that is reflective of the city’s unique heritage and community spirit that have helped it earn its title as the Culinary Capital of the Midwest.
Over three days, this global gathering delves into the forefront of market practices. Conference attendees will engage in an opening plenary, interactive panels and discussions, networking and social events, guided tours, and offsite workshops that showcase Milwaukee’s diverse markets, highlighting innovative practices and exemplary models in action.
For over 35 years, the biennial International Public Markets Conference has united a diverse group of over 400 public market leaders and advocates—including market operators and managers, local food advocates, civil society groups, policymakers, consultants, academic researchers, and more. For an idea of what to expect, take a look at the report for our last conference!
This year’s conference theme is Setting a New Table. Far too many communities currently do not have access to the benefits of public markets, and existing decision-making processes often keep those inequities in place. In order to create market systems for all, market leaders must do more than get a seat at the table—we must work with everyone who has been left out to reimagine the table entirely. This year’s program aims to support market leaders in putting promises of a fair food system, inclusive economies, and social cohesion into action.
The event’s working sessions will take place at the beautiful St. Lawrence Market, and we will also gather in a range of nearby venues and landmarks such as Stackt Market and St James Cathedral. This year’s programming will highlight Toronto’s wide array of public markets including a city-owned and operated historic permanent market hall, a lively market district spanning several city blocks, and many neighborhood open-air markets built from the ground up by community champions and anchor organizations.
Along with dozens of workshops, unconferences, and plenary sessions, participants will have ample opportunities to socialize at special evening events and daylong tours of Toronto’s extensive network of public markets.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, is known for its dynamic public markets scene with a diverse array of markets reflective of the city’s unique heritage and community spirit that have helped it earn its reputation.
An integral part of this scene is our local co-host, the Milwaukee Public Market, recognized in 2024 by USA Today as the No. 1 Best Public Market in the United States. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, Milwaukee Public Market is a shining example of a beloved community hub, featuring 19 vendors offering an eclectic mix of local produce, artisanal goods, and culinary delights.
We are delighted to have the International Public Markets Conference come to the great city of Milwaukee. We look forward to welcoming an international crowd and showcasing our outstanding placemaking initiatives, including our city's public markets, which have been key to driving our city's economic and community growth, making Milwaukee a flourishing place to live, work, and play.
— Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson
The theme for our 2025 conference, Public Markets for Every City, serves as a powerful call to action to recognize the transformative influence of public markets in shaping vibrant and inclusive urban spaces. In Milwaukee, we will explore this by highlighting the city’s wide array of public markets, including Milwaukee Public Market, West Allis Farmers Market, Fondy Farmers Market, Milwaukee Night Market, and Zocalo Food Truck Park, as well as many other public spaces that have flourished thanks to placemaking led by neighborhood associations, business improvement districts, city agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Read our latest blog article to see why we’re excited to head to Milwaukee.
Read MoreWhether or not you’re familiar with Brew City, may you arrive hungry and leave with a taste for Milwaukee!
Sign up for our Biweekly Bazaar newsletter to be the first to learn about our Call for Proposals (now open until November 13), save on Early Bird Registration, and get sneak peeks of the schedule lineup and helpful tips to prepare you for your three-day adventure exploring the best of public markets in Milwaukee!
The International Public Markets Conference is the largest global conference for public market professionals. For over 35 years, the International Public Markets Conference has united a diverse group of public market leaders and advocates—from market managers and downtown planners to local food advocates, market consultants, policymakers, and developers.
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—Mayor , City of Toronto
In 2019, lessons from the International Public Markets Conference inspired the launch of the Market Cities Program at Project for Public Spaces. The Program aims to strengthen the regional systems behind the market stalls by connecting and supporting a diverse set of stakeholders through research, specialized training, and a network of peers.
During the 11th International Public Markets Conference in Toronto, Project for Public Spaces announced the launch of the Market Cities Network, the first international forum for markets of all kinds and the people committed to their success. Among many benefits, Market Cities Network members enjoy a $50 discount on conference registration and speaking opportunities.
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—Mayor , City of Toronto
