Charlotte, North Carolina always has some sort of event going on every day of the week.
There are farmers markets all over the greater metropolitan area that you can visit to purchase locally grown produce. Here are the 10 best farmers markets in Charlotte!
1. Charlotte Regional Farmers Market
Vendors at this market sell a variety of goods from honey, meat, and vegetables to fruit, flowers, and resale products. Charlotte Regional Farmers Market is actually one of only four state markets to operate in North Carolina.
It is a state-run market and is held on multiple days throughout the week. Different vendors are assigned to different days, so you should check who will be selling the day you plan to visit.
Why we like it:
This farmer’s market is so large and advanced that they even offer an interactive map so you can easily find the different vendors.
2. King’s Drive Farmers Market
This farmers market is a centrally located outdoor store where you can find great produce for a bargain. Their items change with the season so you will find something different each time you visit.
They open at 6 A.M., and even with it being outdoors it can still get quite crowded. They do accept cards as long as you purchase above the minimum requirement.
Why we like it:
This market is in a small space but they manage to pack in a bunch. Their tables are always overflowing with gorgeous produce. The best part—the price!
You could walk away with a basket full of naturally grown food all for under $5. You’d pay a fortune for “organic” at Whole Foods.
At Catawba, you have the ability to shop from 32 different vendors, each offering their own unique products. They sell more than just produce; you can select from an array of meat, seafood, and non-perishable goods.
You can order ahead during the week and then select your choice of pick-up location from eight different options.
Why we like it:
Ordering ahead is all done online, which is a great way to reach a wider audience of consumers. It is a hassle-free method that makes shopping for local and organic produce much easier.
The Mecklenburg County Market is the oldest farmer’s market in North Carolina. Dale McLaughlin runs the market, and his grandmother ran it before him.
It has been operating since 1937. Most of the produce comes from the McLaughlin farm but tons of other vendors also participate in the market.
Why we like it:
It seems that food runs in the family because the county market is also considered the home base for Dale’s daughter Beverly for her frozen vegan and vegetarian gourmet food.
This market has been operating since 2010 in Charlotte’s historic South End neighborhood. It was originally called Atherton Market but was recently changed.
They prioritize providing the community with responsibly raised and sustainable goods so that you can feel at ease knowing where your food came from. The market also accepts pre-orders online.
Why we like it:
The South End Market accepts multiple types of payment, such as SNAP, making it easier for everyone to shop there.
By accepting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, its members are able to purchase healthy local food that they otherwise might not have been able to.
6. Matthews Community Farmers Market
Matthew’s Community Farmer’s market is the largest producer-only market found in the greater Charlotte area. Everything sold at the market is grown within 50 miles of the city.
Fish is caught off the coast of North Carolina and quickly sent to the market by the fishermen. All of the products are naturally-grown without any additives or treatments.
Why we like it:
Being able to speak directly to the producer is the best part of farmers’ markets. You can build a relationship with the farmers and know the exact source and growing methods of your food.
The Old Town’s Farmers Market is a small farmers-only market made up of about a dozen different producers. It is right across the state border in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
All the farmers are local South Carolinians who sell produce, meats, dairy, and soaps. They have seasonal hours and are usually closed during the winter months.
Why we like it:
This small market still manages to offer up a large variety of goods. Even better, it is located in the parking lot of the Legal Remedy Brewing, so you can stop in for a drink while you’re shopping.
Josh has been selling produce at this location since he was a young boy. He has now expanded it to include other vendors and goods to provide for the Charlotte area.
You can send in your orders via text, call, or email. They even have a pre-order drive-thru option.
Why we like it:
This market has such a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can tell the farmers truly love their craft and the foods they produce.
Josh’s market is constantly rotating through different goods based on the season, so it’s a one-stop-shop for everything you need, like pumpkins and Christmas trees.
This farmers market is only open from April to December. It relies on its local customers for support since it is a non-profit market that only sells directly from the producers.
They have over a dozen different farmers and sell a variety of goods. Whether you want berries, plants, protein, or even mushrooms; this market has you covered.
Why we like it:
They also sell delicious baked goods like Belgian waffles, granola, and croissants. They offer gluten-free goods as well. They even have woodworking and leather craftsmen selling their products.
The Uptown Farmers Market is centrally located right in the middle of the city. It is the newest addition to Charlotte’s markets and was inaugurated this past December 2020.
It is a producer-only market that aims to deliver only fresh and delicious foods into the city center. You are able to meet with the farmers directly responsible for your food.
Why we like it:
They offer much more than produce and meats at this market. Stop by for some great tea, coffee, kombucha, baked goods, salsas, hot sauces, and more!
There are so many great markets in Charlotte, you could visit a different one every day of the week! Shopping at a farmers’ market is a great way to support your local small businesses and also get involved in your community.
Stop by any of these markets to get a taste of naturally grown foods.
