Downtown's oldest and largest open-air market begins its 2011 season today in Zeidler Union Square, 301 W. Michigan St.

The Westown Farmer's Market will offer local art, prepared food and fresh produce every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Oct. 26. This year's market features a variety of new vendors, including Streetza Pizza, Tigerbite, Sven's Coffee, Great Harvest Bakery, Martita's Mixers and Jean's Cakes.

A full lineup of local music and events is also scheduled. Music performances run from 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.

The South Milwaukee Downtown Market begins its third season tomorrow, June 2, on 11th and Milwaukee Avenues in the heart of South Milwaukee's city center.

The market hits the ground running with over 50 vendors offering produce, art, prepared food and weekly live music every Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. through Oct. 13.

New this year, the market features a five-concert series presented the first Thursday of every month by the South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. Popular local band Choir Fight opens the series tomorrow night.