If you need the best ingredients to whip up healthy, wholesome, and scrumptious meals, go grocery shopping at a farmers market. This gives you access to produce at peak freshness, which is when it’s most nutritious and tastiest.
The popularity of farmers markets continues to soar, driven by environmental and personal health reasons. According to statistics, the global sales of organic food stood at $120.65 billion in 2020—up from just $18 billion in 2000. This demand for fresh, locally-grown ingredients has seen the explosion of the farm-to-table movement that emphasizes a close-knit, symbiotic relationship with local farmers.
Thanks to farmers markets that continue to spring up in Charlottesville and beyond, sourcing from-the-field fresh produce has never been easier.
A Guide to Farmers Markets Around Charlottesville
As one of the country’s most vibrant epicenters of cuisine, it’s no surprise that Charlottesville is home to a lively farmers market and farm-to-table food scene.
The city at the foothill of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains is peppered with year-round and seasonal farmers markets that inform the tabletops of locals and menus of well-regarded restaurants in the region.
Charlottesville simply embodies the farm-to-table movement. And with spring in full bloom, it’s a great time to visit one of the city’s farmers markets. It’s an attraction you don’t want to miss.
Whether you’re a health-conscious shopper or a self-proclaimed foodie, grab your tote and get ready to reap the bounty of these cream-of-the-crop farmers markets around Charlottesville.
Key’s Corner Indoor Market
According to CBS19 News, the Key’s Corner Indoor Market at Key Recreational Center was introduced as a way to “bridge the gap between the Holiday Market and the outdoor City Market.” There are over 40 vendors with stalls overflowing with fresh products from Charlottesville and the Blue Ridge Mountains region.
Whether you’re craving a mouth-watering treat, looking to stock up on fresh produce and baked goods, or even hunting for unique crafts, Key’s Corner Indoor Market is your one-stop-spot.
Website: Facebook Page
When to Visit: Every Saturday (9AM – 12PM) from January 15 – March 26, 2022
Location: 800 E Market St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
The Farmers Market at IX
Dubbed “the only walk-up farmers market in Charlottesville,” the Farmers Market at IX Art Park is a renowned local shopping hotspot. It sees droves of locals line up to buy garden-fresh foods and ingredients every Saturday.
This farmers market is home to over 60 vendors selling artisanal goods, delicious foods, and farm-fresh produce. And if you can spare some time from grocery shopping, there are art and salsa dancing events to help work up an appetite.
From supporting the local community to savoring delectable snacks to shopping for one-of-a-kind artisanal items, visiting the Farmers Market at IX is a not-to-miss experience.
Website: https://www.ixartpark.org/farmers-market
When to Visit: Every Saturday 9AM – 1PM, changes to 8AM – 12PM in the summer
Location: 522 2nd St. SE Charlottesville, VA 22902
Forest Lakes Farmers Market
Make a beeline to Forest Lakes South Pool/Tennis Courts parking lot off of Rt. 29 North. The Forest Lakes Farmers Market is an opportunity to enjoy the seasonal bounty of the Charlottesville region’s colorful produce, locally-made cheeses from nearby farms, dairy products, wines, and other local indulgences.
You’ll typically find an array of regionally-sourced goods and cuisines that are almost guaranteed to indulge any foodie. Mark your calendar and pay this Charlottesville farmers market a visit.
Website: Facebook Page
When to Visit: Every Tuesday 4 PM-7 PM, April 26th – October 11th
Location: 1650 Ashwood Blvd. Charlottesville, VA, US 22911
Farmers in the Park
Farmers in the Park is a delicious place to stock up on everything from fresh veggies, fruits, baked goods, flowers, meats, snacks, and other locally produced/grown foods. It runs on Wednesdays, which offers a less cramped alternative to the popular Saturday farmers markets—but with the same Charlottesville charm.
Unlike most other farmers markets around Charlottesville, Farmers in the Park is a grower/producer-only market. This offers a great opportunity to know exactly where your next meal was raised or harvested. And it means that whatever you buy plays a part in supporting local farmers.
Website: Facebook Page
When to Visit: Open from May – September: Wednesdays, 3pm – 7pm & October: Wednesdays, 2pm – 6pm)
Location: 300 Meade Ave Charlottesville, VA, US 22902
Eat Fresh, Eat Healthily, Eat Local
Visiting a farmers market around Charlottesville is a great way to support the local community, learn more about the area’s unique food culture, and sample some wonderful fare. So get your bag, lace up your comfy shoes, and head out to grab some prime produce.
Please remember to check the respective websites for opening schedules and requirements before visiting.
