8 Best Farmers Markets in Florida!
Searching for open-air markets offering up the best fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious smoothies and scrumptious deserts? Well, strolling through one of those in the beautiful warmth of the Sunshine State is a can’t-miss experience. No matter where you find yourself in Florida, there will be a farmers market near by. Here are our 8 favorites.
Jacksonville Farmers Markets, Jacksonville, FL
Since 1938, locally-grown fruits and veggies have been available for purchase through Jacksonville’s Farmers Market. Today, the open-air market still packs in over one million visitors each year. In addition to the crops from the local farmers, this marketplace is just as famous for ethnic and imported items. For the unique and hard-to-find purchases, make sure to peruse the outdoor bays at this Farmers Market. Open daily from dawn to dusk, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day.
Kissimmee Valley Farmers Market, Kissimmee, FL
The Kissimmee Valley’s Farmers Market calls the Lakefront Park home. Located in the beautiful historic downtown area of Kissimmee, there are plenty of vendors on hand to sell fresh produce, locally harvested raw honey, handcrafted jewelry and other items, and much more! Lots of restaurants within the downtown area use fruits and vegetables from the local farmers to give their dishes a local flavor as well.
Alachua County Farmers Market, Gainesville, FL
Locals wait in line carrying their grocery lists, small bills, and shopping bags, waiting for the bell to officially open the Farmers Market every Saturday at 8:30 a.m. starting in April.
Yellow Green Farmers Market, Hollywood, FL
In Hollywood, Florida, the Yellow Green Farmers Market is open on every Saturday and Sunday. All the booths and table spaces occupied by local producers and farmers can be found in a covered marketspace. Over 300 under-roof booths span across the 100,000-square foot outdoor space. Spicy pickles, a variety of smoothies and a variety of craft items are a few examples of what is available at this market. Clothing and flowers round out the purchasing possibilities.
The High Springs Farmers Market, High Springs, FL
Open year-round on Friday afternoons from 3 pm, the High Springs Farmers Market is made up of individual sales booths, ranging from canopy-covered tables and chairs to truck beds. There are many vendors selling much more than just organic fruits and veggies. Items ranging from cheesecakes, soaps and lotions are available for purchase. The residents of High Springs flock to the market each week to purchase the freshest produce products and homemade soaps.
Saturday Morning Market, St. Petersburg, FL
In St. Petersburg, this market is open every Saturday. The mission of this market is to “be the heart of the city—the place, more than anywhere else, that people feel a strong sense of joyful connectedness and creative community.” Making up the “heart of the city,” are local farmers, great food, interesting crafts and lively music. These elements provide an atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors returning every Saturday.
Winter Park Farmers Market, Winter Park, FL
Winter Park’s Farmers Market is housed in a unique location-an old train depot. The location has been restored and is now a historical landmark that hosts a popular produce and plant market within the Central Florida area. Baked goods can also be purchased, along with traditional items such as fruits and vegetables and honey. This market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 pm. One exception to the year-round schedule is the third Saturday in March. On this date, the market has a standing routine of being closed.
Lake Mary Farmers Market, Lake Mary, FL
One thing that sets this market apart from the majority of other Floridian markets is that man’s best friend is allowed to shop and browse along with its owner. One of the only dog-friendly markets, Lake Mary allows the friendly canines to enter the market, but they must stay leashed at all times. Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., visitors can browse through fresh produce, honey, baked goods, handmade jewelry, wood crafts, orchids, pet food, small and large plants and assorted nuts.