Spring has sprung and that means it’s the perfect time to visit your local farmers market to take advantage of the harvest from winter. With a month of bearable weather still to come, you can confidently visit these outdoor spots for fresh fruits and veggies, without breaking too much of a sweat. If you’re new to the farmers market world, we’ve picked a few of the most visited in the valley.
Roadrunner Park Farmers Market – Located in Northeast Phoenix, Roadrunner Park Farmers Market is one of the oldest farmers markets in Phoenix and stays open throughout the year. It certainly doesn’t help that it has also been named as one of the best in the nation by Cooking Light magazine, with fresh chicken and grass-fed lamb available. You can also get specialty foods like cupcakes, jams and jellies, wild salmon, and tamales just to name a few. With the market being located at Roadrunner Park, there is also plenty for families to do before or after they visit the market, with a playground, swimming pool and fishing pond available.
Gilbert Farmers Market – If you live in the southeast valley, the Gilbert Farmers Market hosts up to 60 vendors, giving shoppers a huge variety of options. Located in downtown Gilbert, it’s easy to grab some breakfast and then head over to the market for fresh produce. The market presents an excellent opportunity to chat with some of the farmers that may be just outside your community. The market is open from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. in the fall/winter months, and 7 a.m.-11 a.m. in the spring/summer months.
Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market – A staple in Downtown Phoenix since 2005, this farmers market is located in the heart of the city on Central and McKinley. With delicious breakfast options scattered amongst the array of organic produce, you certainly won’t leave hungry. While it is sure to be busy amidst the influx of residents to Metro Phoenix, there is plenty of parking and an abundance of food to go around. Look for the unique salsas and honeys to give your home-cooked food a new twist, and don’t miss the treats for your canine-friend.
Uptown Farmers Market – One of the largest in the area, the Uptown Farmers Market takes over the vast parking lot of North Phoenix Baptist Church, and fills it with over 100 vendors, food trucks and live music. Another major plus with this market is that they are open Saturday and Wednesday mornings. Even better, the market moves indoors from June-September, so you don’t have to worry about the summer heat when shopping from your local vendors. Vendors also give any extra food that they have leftover to those experiencing homelessness, so that none goes to waste.
Ahwatukee Farmers Market – Another great option for East Valley dwellers, Ahwatukee Farmers Market is located on the corner of 48th St. and Warner Rd. The market sells a variety of plants, herbs and flowers to go along with their fresh produce. Keep an eye out for those plants that are native to Phoenix if you’re looking to add some local flair to your home. You can also use a credit card here, which is not always the case at every market. The market is open from 8-11 a.m. year-round.
What are your favorite items to pick up at your local farmer’s maket?
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