04/28/2026
I wanted to take a moment to share the story about how our market came about! 🫶🏼
The Red Barn Harvest Fest has been growing in my heart for years. When our store The Red Barn was located at The Rust Belt in East Moline, I hosted several indoor/outdoor makers markets there. Those events were such a joy as they brought people together to support local makers and small businesses. Hosting those markets planted a seed in me: a dream of one day creating something even bigger and even more meaningful.
When we opened our new store in Geneseo, we decided it was time to say goodbye to that East Moline space, and with it, those markets I loved so much. But the dream never went away. In fact, it quietly grew. In 2024 we moved to our forever home on a 10-acre farm, and in 2025 we welcomed our baby boy into our family while also making the decision to close our retail store and turn it into an event space. This season reminded us how precious it is to slow down, savor the little moments, and truly enjoy time with family and friends. That perspective made it even clearer how much this market means to us: it’s a chance to create a space where people can get together and make memories together, just as we want to do with our own family.
The name ‘Red Barn’ comes from my family farm in southeast Iowa, where my parents still farm today. Growing up, those red barns always reminded me of home and comfort. Now, here on our farm in Geneseo, Illinois (complete with a red barn of our own) it feels like everything has come full circle. Surrounded by corn and bean fields along the Hennepin Canal State Trail, the flat pasture on our farm is the perfect spot for this event!
Along with my husband Joe, who’s always been my biggest supporter, and also our kids, we’re excited to make this dream a reality. The first Red Barn Harvest Fest will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, and then every third Saturday in September after that.
This isn’t just a market, it’s a day to unwind, enjoy the crisp fresh fall air, take some photos, support amazing local makers + small businesses, and enjoy some great food and drinks. We can’t wait to welcome you to our happy place! ☺️🍂
