Harvest time: Find fresh produce at these farmers markets
April 12, 2024
Charlotte-area farmers markets are back in business with seasonal fare and a bounty of fresh produce. From fruits and vegetables to baked goods — you’ll find something worthy to celebrate the harvest at home spring through fall.
The Bulb Mobile Market
This nonprofit organization sells fresh, mostly local produce with a focus on health and wellness education in 12 neighborhoods across Charlotte where fresh produce is less available. Weekly markets are held at local churches, community centers, schools and even the Transit Center in uptown.
Charlotte Regional Farmers Market
Known for its wide selection of farm-fresh pork and beef, goat milk cheeses and beauty products, plus baked goods, jams and jellies. This longtime market is a must-see and do. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 1801 Yorkmont Rd.
Cotswold Farmers Market
Spend your Saturday morning picking fresh, seasonal produce, flowers, and other handmade goods. Soaps, breads, meats, coffee, and eggs are all available. A fun outing for the family, live music is often present as well as interactive activities to round out your visit. Saturdays May-October, 8 a.m. to noon, 4921 Randolph Rd. (Providence Baptist Church parking lot).
Kings Drive Farmers Market
This one-stop shop for fresh fruits and vegetables features longtime local favorite, Simpson’s Produce. Kings Drive also sells seasonal plants and flowers, and is a go-to for Christmas trees during the holidays. Open Tuesdays 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., 938 S. Kings Dr.
Matthews Community Farmers’ Market
With live music and food trucks all season, the downtown Matthews market has become a community tradition. All products and produce (with the exception of fish) are grown within 50 miles. NEW this season: Baba & Pop’s Pierogi, Cox Brothers Acres and Sweetie Craves (Columbian comfort food and desserts). Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. 188 N. Trade St., Matthews
Mecklenburg County Market
At the oldest farmers market in Mecklenburg County, shoppers can expect organic produce, local preserves (jam and honey), and homemade fare like salsas and granolas, including Beverly’s Gourmet Foods. Open daily at 1515 Harding Pl.
North End Farmers Market
This market is a catchall for local vendors and shoppers. Pick up a bouquet for a special someone. Select prime cuts of pork and beef. Choose a savory or sweet pie to take home. When you’re done at the market, carve out some time to explore the other offerings at Camp North End. Open Thursdays, April 18 – Oct. 31, 2024, 4 – 8 p.m., 1701 N. Graham St.
Plaza Midwood Farmers Market
Beyond traditional farmers market fare, this Plaza Midwood mainstay also provides subscription veggie boxes. These CSA boxes help fund the market with produce from local farms. The market opens April 13. Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Common Market, plus CSA box pickup available during limited hours at Local Loaf in NoDa and The Market at 7th Street in uptown.
South End Farmers Market
Go early and get your pick of produce, handmade pierogies, specialty teas and other fan favorites. South End Farmers Market is open 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturdays at Atherton Mill. 2000 South Blvd.
Uptown Farmers Market
This market has variety with a lineup of nearly 50 vendors who sell everything from baked goods, sauces and dog treats to meats and produce. Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 300 S. Davidson St.
The Village at Robinson Farms Market
Known for its selection of peaches, tomatoes, melons, squash, plants, herbs, fresh eggs, and cut flowers. Find the market outside The Butcher’s Market specialty grocer. Opens April 20, every Wednesday and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., 8410 Rea Rd. SP
— Compiled by Sharon Smith
Featured image of Cox Brothers Acres, a regular vendor at South End Farmers Market and Cotswold Farmers Market
