Central Virginia has a thriving agricultural community with enthusiastic support for the farm-to-table, local foods movement that shows no signs of waning. In Charlottesville and the surrounding counties you will find restaurants of varying style and cuisine that proudly site their locally-sourced ingredients. The best visual representation of such a vibrant local economy that supports its homegrown foods and locally raised livestock is perhaps most evident at the many bustling farmers’ markets in the area. For your easy reference, we’ve pulled together a list of those in and around Charlottesville. At the markets listed below, you’ll be able to peruse fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers grown in local fields, taste homemade baked goods made with fresh ingredients such as local honey, and admire the handiwork of local artisans.
Charlottesville
There are a couple options in Charlottesville to get fresh, local produce along with the farmers’ market experience.
Saturdays, 7 a.m.-12 p.m. | April-December
In the lot between Water St. and South St. | Charlottesville, VA
Wednesdays, 3-7 p.m. | May-September
300 Meade Ave. | Charlottesville, VA
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | May-October
1156 Crozet Ave. | Crozet United Methodist Church (CUMC)
What makes the Crozet Market unique is that market sales go to support the CUMC food pantry. Additionally, every second and fourth Saturday, the Horticulture Help Desk is open for any questions you might have for the Piedmont Master Gardeners who staff the desk. Common questions range from pest control to plant health and environmental impact.
Nelson Farmers Market Cooperative
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | May-October
3079 Rockfish Valley Hwy. | Nellysford, VA
This year the Nelson Farmers Market Cooperative celebrates twenty years in operation supporting the local farming community.
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | May-October
1110 Fairground Rd. | Madison, VA
Fluvanna Farmer’s Market at Pleasant Grove
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Tuesdays, 2-6 p.m.
1730 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy. | Palmyra, VA
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | May-September
Tractor Supply on Route 33 | Ruckersville, VA
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Mini Market Tuesdays, 5-7 p.m., June-August
81 Louisa Ave. | Mineral, VA (Louisa County)
