Best Valley Farmers' Markets

 
 
 

farmers_market_hands.jpg

According to the Arizona Farm Bureau, Arizona agriculture is a $10.3-billion industry. The Valley offers numerous farmers’ markets that offer up almost anything you can think of—from farm-fresh fruits and veggies to just-cut flowers and homemade gifts. Instead of rushing to the grocery store, soak up some sun and shop from organic homegrown foodstuffs, while also supporting the local economy and community farmers, at these Valley farmers’ markets.


gilbert_farmers_market.jpg

Gilbert Farmers’ Market (pictured)

When: Saturdays, October through March, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.; April through September, 7-11 a.m.

Located just west of the iconic Gilbert water tower, Gilbert Farmers’ Market hosts more than 60 vendors during the summer season and close to 100 vendors in the fall/spring months. Shop a wide variety of locally grown produce from nearby farms and goods from local producers. And be sure to save room for some food truck fare and a cold drink from Mama’s Cold Brew, which is often at the market.

The Camelback Market at Vincent’s

When: Saturdays, late October through early May 12, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Wander through stalls filled with a mix of fresh local produce and exotic imported fruits and vegetables. Warm, crusty breads, buttery croissants, homemade jams, mustards and imported cheeses, among other goodies await. If you can’t wait to get your hands on your groceries, guests can purchase wines by the glass, enjoy omelets and crêpes made to order as well as Vincent’s grilled panini sandwiches, on-site.

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers’ Market

When: Saturdays, closed during the summer months, 7-11 a.m.

This lively market (which is pet- and family-friendly) features local growers and specialty food producers offering up a wide variety of organic and pesticide-free produce. Freshly baked artisan breads, Amish friendship breads, jams, piccadillies and tamales are just some of the great local foods you’ll find here.


phoenix_public_market.jpg

Downtown Phoenix Open Air Market (pictured)

When: Saturdays, May through September, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.; October through April, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

All within the parking lot of the Phoenix Public Market is your one-stop shop for everything local—from fruits and veggies to jewelry and clothing. No need to go hungry, as there’s lots of samples to go ‘round, while vendors like Mi Catering and Adobo Dragon serve up food to go.

Carefree Farmers’ Market

When: Fridays, October through May, 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

What makes Carefree Farmers’ Market different is its demonstrations by chefs from Valley restaurants. Features may include fresh, local and seasonal produce; fresh herbs and flowers; locally made jams, jellies and salsas; fresh-baked breads and much more. Located across the street from Carefree’s town hall.

Roadrunner Park Farmers’ Market

When: Saturdays, October through May, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; June through September, 7–11 a.m.

Found just east of State Route 51 on the north side of Cactus in the front (southern part) of Roadrunner Park, this year-round farmers’ market has been a Valley favorite since 1990. Local farm produce includes fresh vegetables and fruits; baked goods; honey, jams and jellies; nursery stock; natural pork, beef and fish; and hand-crafted items for gifting. Plus, families can enjoy the park’s playground, fishing pond, ducks and geese on premises, swimming pool, soccer fields and more.

Ahwatukee Farmers’ Market

When: Sundays, October through May, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; June through September, 8–11 a.m.

In the parking lot of the Ahwatukee Swim and Tennis Center, shoppers at the Ahwatukee Farmers’ can expect local, and seasonal produce; herbs and flowers; jams and jellies; fresh salsas; fresh-baked breads; natural pork, beef and fish; and a selection of local arts and crafts.