Nothing says summer like the sights and sounds of a vibrant farmer’s market. Fruits, vegetables, local art; I can’t get enough. And luckily for us, there are plenty of Charlotte markets where we can soak up the last few days and foods of summer. It’s not all Kings Drive and Yorktown either. Check out some of our “indie” favorites:
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Piedmont Row Farmer’s Market
4725 Piedmont Row Drive
Wednesdays, 1-5 PM
Piedmont Row Farmer’s Market
On your lunch break or after a class at the Y, check out Southpark’s own outdoor market at Piedmont Row. These specialty vendors bring out the best of summer’s produce and serve it up with the convenience of a centrally located neighborhood market. Browse the tents full of local artisan breads, fresh produce, and beautifully fragrant bouquets perfect for grabbing on-the-go. And don’t forget the four-legged friends in your family: pick up some treats for your pup at CJ’s Paw-some Pastries before you head home.
Go-go fresco
Varying locations, see here for full schedule.
Photo courtesy of Go-go fresco Farmer’s Market
Speaking of being on-the-go, this traveling farmer’s market is taking fresh to a whole new level. Shop local and give back with Go-go fresco, a pop up market that donates profits to Charlotte causes. In their first year alone they’ve raised over $7,000 for local charities. Find them where you are: at the Piedmont Row Farmer’s Market, West Elm in the Metropolitan, and more. No cash? No problem. The market that makes it easy to give also makes it easy to pay by accepting credit cards. Check out their full schedule and help them continue their mission.
Atherton Mill Market
2104 South Blvd.
Tuesday: 10AM-7PM
Wednesday-Friday: 10AM-2PM
Saturday: 9AM-2PM
Photo courtesy of Atherton Mill Market
Get a dash of local flavor by stepping into Southend’s Atherton Mill Market. You’ll be greeted by the welcoming aroma of Not Just Coffee, and you’ll stay for the unique crafts and foods crafted by the friendly vendors. Stop by Charlotte-based Dukes Bread, grab an all-natural, artisan loaf, and ask about how they got their start in the University area. In addition to exceptional produce, you can also pick up healthy meals to go and sample creations from local chefs.
There’s always something going on at the market. Bring the kids (and your sweet tooth) to the South End Churn-Tacular on Saturday August 16th. Individuals, businesses, and vendors compete for the title of the best ice cream and your taste buds decide the winner. Tasting and voting begins at 11 AM.
7th Street Public Market
224 E. 7th Street
Monday-Thursday: 11 AM-7PM
Friday: 11 AM-8PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM-8PM
Sunday: 10 AM-5PM (select vendors)
7th St. Public Market
Finally, a shopping trip the whole family can enjoy. This half market, half gourmet food center is a food lover’s dream. Kids will love browsing the sweets at Cloud 9, and you can score a deal on fresh meat, fish, and more local products. You can even make a day of it and stay for lunch at one of the market’s mouthwatering restaurants. An added bonus? Parking in the 7th Street Station parking deck is completely free for the first 90 minutes with a validated ticket. Tip: Head out on a Saturday to catch their Green Market Saturdays series for featured vendors and deals.
Stay tuned later this summer for a new vendor in the 7th Street neighborhood: Tank’s Tap. The upcoming craft beer bar can help you discover new favorites or pick up what you need for an upcoming party, all within the market.
Whatever you do, don’t leave without learning a little bit about the 7th Street Public Market’s mission: to promote the region’s famers, entreprenuer’s and artisans. The market is also dedicated to providing access to healthy food and nutrtion education in our area, making it easy to shop well and do good.
Can’t make it out to one of these? If online shopping is more your speed, order your favorite fruits and veggies from GO Local NC and pick them up at one of their seven convenient Charlotte locations.
Happy shopping!
