Picture this: it’s a warm, sunny morning at your local suburban farmers market. You’re strolling through, taking in all the delicious smells of newly baked goods for sale, chatting with the friendly vendors and getting so excited about all the delicious meals you can make with your incredibly fresh ingredients. Sounds like heaven, huh?
We may be biased, but we love local New Jersey produce. Ripe tomatoes, sweet corn and yummy blueberries are just a few of the items we look forward to every spring and summer in the burbs. Not only are you supporting local economies when you buy from farmers markets but eating locally is good for the environment as well.
Below are 4 farmers markets you can enjoy this May, along with a few that you can enjoy come June. If you visit a farmers market, take a picture and tag us! #SEARCHtheBurbs
Madison
The Madison farmers market begins Thursday, May 20th and will be held at Dodge Field, only a few blocks away from Madison’s bustling downtown. The market is open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Last year the market featured fresh produce from three local farms, along with homemade chili, gourmet nuts & dried fruits, goats milk soap, and even italian ice for a sweet and refreshing treat while you shop!
Learn more about the town of Madison here.
Montclair
Montclair offers their farmers market year round! Enjoy browsing local vendors on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. December through May, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. June through November. Get yourself some organic vegetables from Circle Brook Farm, specialty muffins or scones from Ester’s Treats, or get some freshly caught fish from the Jersey Shore from the Shore Catch.
Learn more about the town of Montclair here.
Summit
If Saturdays are usually too busy for you, head over to the Summit farmers market on Sundays! The Summit market opened in mid-April, and is open all summer long and into the fall months, finally closing in November. Customers can browse the vendors 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy a cup of Ahrre’s Coffee as you get your fixings for the week ahead. Get your Jersey fresh produce from visiting farms like Corner-Copia farm, Race farm, Phillips farm and more!
Summit’s farmers market also features vendors that visit every other week, like Made With Clay, which sells beautiful handmade pottery. You can see who is participating which week on their website.
Learn more about Summit here.
West Orange
Re-opening May 15th, the West Orange farmers market has all of your food favorites, and more! This market features over 35 vendors, from farms, to gluten free desserts, to up-cycled crafts. This market also features live music, which makes the shopping experience even better. Learn more about this farmers market here.
Coming Soon
These are just a few of the farmers markets in Northern & Central New Jersey. Westfield, Maplewood and Chatham markets start in June, and you won’t want to miss them.
Many of these towns’ farmers markets are either located in or around the downtown area. Why not make a day of it? Check out our best downtowns blog to find out how you can enjoy the local farmers markets as well as great shopping, delicious dining options and activities for the young and old.