Beginner’s Guide to Farmers Markets in Charlotte, NC
Never been to a farmers market before? Unsure of what it’s like? Don’t know what the etiquette is? New to Charlotte’s farmers market scene?
If you answered “yes” to any of those questions or you’re really just interested in learning more about the farmers markets in and around Charlotte, I’ve got you covered.
First, we’ll go over some of the basics of farmers markets. Although farmers markets differ widely from market to market and regionally, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Then, we’ll get into where the markets are in Charlotte and what you need to know about a few key ones.
The Basics of Farmers Markets
- Bring cash! Although this is slowly changing, there are often many vendors that only accept cash. Usually markets will have an ATM nearby, but it’s a good idea to come prepared just in case.
- Expect seasonal produce. Most farmers at farmers markets aren’t large, industrial operations and they definitely aren’t importing their goods — they’re growing them right near your house! So, don’t expect produce that is out of season, instead make the most out of what is in season.
- Try out baked goods and packaged products. This was my biggest mistake when I started going to farmers markets. Taste a pastry as a snack or bring home a loaf of bread or a tub of honey and you won’t regret it!
- Ask questions and talk to the farmers (but only when there’s no line). If you ever have had a question about your produce or just want to learn more about who is growing it, farmers markets are the place to do that! But, remember that the farmers are there to sell their goods to make a living so try to avoid monopolizing their time if it’s really busy.
- Some prices may be higher than at the supermarket. This isn’t always the case, but sometimes it is, and it’s important to keep in mind. Often farmers at farmers markets are smaller-scale operations and are more specialized. Their prices are set to make sure they make enough money to live off of, so don’t complain if the price seems too high for you.
Farmers Markets in Charlotte
The largest and most important farmers market in Charlotte is the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, located near the airport at 1801 Yorkmont Road. It’s open 4–5 days a week, depending on the season, and it’s big!
One of the best things about this market is that it often does themed days or events, which can make going to the market even more of an outing and motivate people who are new to farmers markets to check it out. Sometimes farmers will give out free recipes, have special food for the event or even host some kind of information session or workshop.
(This weekend — Nov 16, 2019 — the market is having “Leafy Green Vegetable Day,” which, they say will feature “vendors … handing out free recipes that include all kinds of fresh North Carolina grown greens. Collards, kale, cabbage, bok choy, mustard greens, broccoli, and more will be featured this weekend. Don’t miss out on this event, because greens are so good!”)
Another important farmers market is the Atherton Farmers Market located at Atherton Mill in South End Charlotte. The market is open every Saturday at Atherton Mill and could be a great pre-game to an afternoon of brewery hopping. This market is much smaller scale and a little bit more pricey, but it excels in its artisan vendors and its prime location.
Two other markets that are worth visiting are the Kings Drive Farmers Market and the Cotswold Farmers Market. Both aren’t far from center city and, although they’re a little smaller than the regional one, usually bring a good variety of vendors at fair prices.
