Where to Find Virginia’s Best Farmers Markets
It’s officially Farmers Market season, y’all! Going to your local farmers market is so much more than just getting groceries. Farmers Markets are a community experience that celebrates the bounty of the land we call home, and boy, does Virginia have some bounty! The Commonwealth is home to 44,800 farms, covering over 30% of the entire state, but despite our rich agricultural history, less than 16 cents of every consumer dollar actually goes to the farmer (source).
You can help change that number by shopping at farmers markets. Buying produce from farmers markets is a great way to put more money in your local farmer’s pocket, and have a good time doing it. It’s a win-win, and there’s food involved. Sign. Us. Up.
Our best farmers market advice? Make a day of it! Most markets have ready-to-eat food available you can snack on while shopping. Get your friends (or fam) together for a mid-afternoon farmers market adventure, and make sure to tag #vafoodie in your Instagram pics of your glorious farmers market haul.
We’ve made a list of our favorite farmers markets in each region of the state. So, check out the list, find your region, and get to it, foodies!
Blue Ridge Highlands
Images: Historic Roanoke City Market
Must-Visit:
Honorable mentions:
Central VA/Richmond
Images: South of the James Market
Shenandoah Valley
Images: Broadway Farmers Market
Southern VA
Images: Southwest Virginia Farmers Market
Must-Visit:
Southwest Virginia Farmers Market
Honorable Mentions:
Tidewater
Images: Cullipher Farm Market
Northern VA
Images: Culpeper Downtown Farmers Market
DC
Images: Columbia Heights Farmers Market