12 of the Best Farmers Markets in North Carolina

best farmers market markets north carolina nc

There are so many great Farmers Markets in North Carolina. Here are a few you HAVE to visit.

Getty Images

It's that time of year when we all start thinking of finding the perfect pumpkin and making canned jams and other goodies! I've found the best place to score these seasonal delights are at farmers markets in North Carolina. Searching for the best local farmers market can be a fun and rewarding experience. As a southern gal who loves her fresh produce, I can tell you that there are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the perfect market. Here are some tips to help you find the best local farmers market:

Location: Consider the location of the farmers market. Is it close to your home? Is it easy to get to? You don't want to have to drive too far to get your fresh produce.
Community involvement: Look for a farmers market that is involved in the community. Does it support local farmers? Does it offer educational programs or events? A market that is involved in the community is more likely to have a variety of fresh produce and other local goods.
Quality of produce: Check the quality of the produce. Is it fresh and in good condition? Are the fruits and vegetables ripe and ready to eat? You want to make sure you're getting the best quality produce for your money.
Variety of produce: Look for a farmers market that offers a variety of produce. You want to be able to find all your favorite fruits and vegetables, as well as some new ones to try.
Price: Consider the price of the produce. Is it reasonable? You don't want to pay too much for your fresh produce.
Vendor selection: Check out all the vendors before making a purchase. Some vendors may have better quality produce than others, so it's important to shop around.
Atmosphere: Look for a farmers market with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. You want to feel comfortable and enjoy your shopping experience.
Remember, shopping at a farmers market is not just about buying fresh produce, it's also about supporting local farmers and the community. So, take your time, enjoy the experience, and don't forget to try something new when you visit these North Carolina Farmers Markets!

New Bern Farmers Market

New Bern has so much to offer and this market is a must see on your weekend adventures! Grab some goodies, enjoy the vendors wares and head to the local waterfront for a perfect Saturday.

421 South Front St. New Bern, NC
252-633-0043

Downtown Hickory Farmers Market

The downtown Hickory Farmers Market is well known for having a great selection of products, year round! Fans of this market rave about the different goat cheeses, baked goods (yum!) and meats.

Union Square, Hickory, NC 28601, Hickory, NC, United States, North Carolina

Durham Farmers Market

Durham has so much to offer and this market is near the top for must do activities in the area. Reviewers are raving: This farmer's market is good because it has the seasonal vegetables/fruits that you're looking for, but also the atmosphere with the food trucks and different types of people. There are musicians playing music, kids playing, skate boarders skating, and just that great Durham eclectic vibe of people. I always find good produce and there is great parking and people watching.

The Pavilion
at Durham Central Park
501 Foster Street
Durham, NC 27701

Josh's Farmers Market

Tis the season for pumpkins! And Josh's Farmers Market in Mooresville delivers on that front, along with other falltastic goodies!

630 Brawley School Road
Mooresville, NC 28117

State Farmers Market

Seven days a week, serious food connoisseurs and regular folks, carefully pick through mounds of gorgeously presented fresh local produce at this popular open market, which is owned by the State of North Carolina.

I-40, Exit 297, Lake Wheeler Road

Cape Fear Farmers Market of Bladen County

The Cape Fear Farmer's Market was designed as a place for our local farmers to offer their fresh and locally grown products. Farmers at the Market offer a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meats, eggs, jams, jellies, preserves, honey-based products, and farm-related products. Each Saturday, vendors can display and sell their handcrafted one-of-a-kind items. Please be aware that participation in the Market varies. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

106 Martin Luther King Dr, Elizabethtown, NC

Wake Forest Farmers Market

Local vendors and seasonal items make this market a hit! From food to hand made crafts, Wake Forest Farmers Market also doubles as a perfect holiday gift destination.

235 S. Taylor StreetWake Forest, NC

Holly Springs Farmers Market

Open year round and with such a loyal following, they even offer a punch card for repeat shoppers! From seafood to tamales, Holly Springs Farmers Market offers a diverse offering of deliciousness.

300 W. Ballentine St., Holly Springs, NC

Sanford Farmers Market

Come meet your local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship with us at the Sanford Farmers’ Market! Offering a diverse selection of seasonal vegetables, fruit, meat, flowers, baked goods, crafts, and more, all produced within the local community! Farmers markets are essential for farmers, food entrepreneurs, and artisans to support their operations and give consumers weekly access to seasonal fruits and vegetables picked at peak ripeness.

115 Chatham st, Sanford, NC

Pittsboro Farmers Market

The Pittsboro Farmers’ Market is a “Producer Only” market, which means that the vendors may only sell the items they grow or produce; vendors are not allowed to buy and re-sell at the PFM. Producers within a 50 mile radius of Pittsboro are eligible to join the market.* This ensures fresh local offerings for the customers.

220 Lorax Lane, Pittsboro, NC

Cary Downtown Farmers Market

The Cary Downtown Farmers Market began in 1996, when three small family farms wanted a place to sell their products directly to the community. A strong community has developed at the market over the years. The town of Cary has come to know and trust the farmers who make their food while sampling produce, learning about where and how the food is grown, and talking about recipes with other shoppers. Onsite there are cooking demos and lots of kid's activities.

200 E. Chatham St, Cary, NC, United States, North Carolina

Dirtbag Farmers Market

Yoga, beer and amazing vendors! Dirtbags Farmers Market is a market you don't want to miss. Plus, the market calendar is loaded down with special, themed weekend events during the market season.

5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills, NC