Zero waste at the Market
Together We can…
Reduce waste by composting, reusing, and making the most of what we already have. Our swaps and zero-waste education initiatives are designed to bring people together around practical, creative ways to live more sustainably.
Zero Waste Volunteers
Our zero-waste volunteers play a key role in helping the market reduce its environmental impact. By providing education and guiding visitors at waste stations, these volunteers make sustainable choices easier for everyone. Everyone from Community Recycling Ambassadors to beginners are welcome. No prior experience is required; volunteers receive a brief training at the start of each shift.
What volunteers do:
Help market-goers sort waste correctly
Reduce contamination in compost and recycling streams
Share information and encouragement
Zero Waste Volunteering is a great way to…
meet new people and connect with your community
learn about recycling and composting in Minneapolis
earn some market spending money! Volunteer 3+ times per season and get $15 in market tokens.
Shifts are from 9:30am to 12:00 noon, on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the market season. Learn more and sign up below!
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Reduce
Reuse
Recycle
〰️ Reduce Reuse Recycle
Community Swaps
We hold themed swaps on the fourth Saturday of each month at the Southwest Farmers’ Market. Instead of buying new, participants give their gently-used items a second life while discovering something new-to-them.
How swaps work:
Participants bring and take clean, gently used household items in good working condition. If you wouldn’t gift the item to a friend, it’s not fit to swap!
Each swap will have a theme and category
All are welcome to bring without taking or take without bringing
Volunteers accept and sort swap items, and help pack up any leftovers at the end of the day. Click here to sign up for swap volunteering!
2026 SWAP Themes and Schedule
Kitchen Gear and Cookbook Swap
When: Saturdays May 23 and August 29, 8:30 AM - 1 PM (cut off time to donate is 12:00 pm)
Where: Southwest Farmers' Market, 5025 Knox Ave, Minneapolis MN 55419
Participants can bring and take clean, gently used, fully functional kitchen items and cookbooks.
Not accepted: items with missing parts, chipped/damaged cookware, scratched pans, heavily used cutting boards, and large appliances.
Clothing Swap
When: Saturday June 27, 10 AM - 1 PM and Saturday September 26, 8:30 AM - 1 PM (cut off time to donate is 12:00 pm)
Where: Southwest Farmers' Market, 5025 Knox Ave, Minneapolis MN 55419
Participants can bring and take clean, gently used clothing.
Not accepted: used undergarments/swimwear, items that are stretched out, piling, stained, or showing signs of heavy wear.
Puzzle and Game Swap
When: Saturday July 25, 10 AM - 1 PM (cut off time to donate is 12:00 pm)
Where: Southwest Farmers' Market, 5025 Knox Ave, Minneapolis MN 55419
Participants can bring and take gently used puzzles and games in good condition with all pieces included. Both indoor and outdoor games welcome!
Halloween Costume and Decor Swap
When: Saturday October 24, 10 AM - 1 PM (cut off time to donate is 12:00 pm)
Where: Southwest Farmers' Market, 5025 Knox Ave, Minneapolis MN 55419
Spooky and sustainable! Participants can bring and take gently used Halloween costumes and decorations in good condition. The following week, we hope to see you dressed up for the end of season Halloween Party on October 31st!