Summer is coming to an end and if you’re anything like my family, so is the travel! When the weekends roll around in September and October we are always looking for things to do around town that could benefit everyone (sights, sounds, treats, fun, food, etc) and one of those things is visiting our local Farmers' Markets! Do your kids get up ridiculously early on the weekend? Want to eat fresh during the week but not sure where to go? Look no further! I bet you'll be as shocked as I was to see how many there are, right outside your door!
Tips to shopping Farmers' Markets:
- Grab the stroller! Some of the markets are large and close to a nearby playground or hiking trails so there might be a bit of walking or exploring after shopping.
- Bring along a few reusable shopping bags. Some vendors have some but not all, plus it's eco-friendly!
- Bring cash! Like the bags, some but not all vendors accept credit cards though it's becoming more mainstream.
- Let the kids rule the shopping! I give each of my children $1 - $5 to pick out something they'd like to eat or try. You could even do a scavenger hunt if you're feeling adventurous!
- Sorry, pet lovers: Leave your dogs at home or check with the market to make sure they allow pets.
- Don't be afraid to negotiate or ask the vendors questions. This is their specialty and many of them want to talk about it!
Arlington County (North):
Where: 901 North Taylor Street, Arlington, VA 22203 (Wellburn Square)
When: Thursdays, 3p - 7p (April - November)
What’s so great about it? The first Thursday of every month they have a Mega Market- music, beer and wine garden, giveaways and more.
Where: 1644 Westover Libery Square, Arlington VA 22205 (in front of the library)
When: Sundays, 8a - 12p (year round, times vary)
What’s so great about it? DONUTS! Look for the truck, it’s hot pink and it’s delicious!
Where: 2807 North Glebe Rd, Arlington VA 22207
When: Saturdays, 9a - 1p (May - late November)
What’s so great about it? Check out Great Valley Farms - they are more than just fresh produce! They offer a variety of delicious canned goods, salsas, dried good and vegetables.
Where: 1800 Lynn Street, Arlington, VA 22209
When: Wednesdays, 3p - 7p (May - October)
What’s so great about it? Love the produce but can’t make it every week? Sign up for a share of fresh fruits and vegetables along with recipes and tips! Check it out here.
Where: 4401 North Henderson Rd, Arlington VA 22203 (Barrett Elementary School)
When: Saturdays, 8a - 12p (April - November)
What’s so great about it? Besides being located at a school with a playgound at your disposal, this is one of the newer markets in our area. Their website is full of information, recipes and a produce calendar which I found extremely informative!
Where: 2100 Clarendon Blvd #414, Arlington VA 22201
When: Saturdays, 8a - 12p (year round, times vary)
What’s so great about it? The man behind Cold Country Salmon, Jack, flies to Alaska every June and brings back fresh cod, halibut, salmon and more! Talk about wild caught!
Falls Church:
Where: 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, VA 22046
When: Saturdays, 8a - 12p (year round, times vary)
What’s so great about it? You have to stop by Kate’s Crepes, who just won Best Vendor for the Best of Falls Church 2019. Runners up: Chris’ Marketplace, Fresh Crunch Pickles, Grace’s Pasteries, Toigo Orchards.
Where: Marshall High School, 7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22043
When: Sundays, 8:30a - 1pm (year round, times vary)
What’s so great about it? If you have a child with allergies (or even if you don’t!) check out Out of the Bubble Bakery! They offer nut free, vegan and gluten-free options and you’ll want to try them all!
Fairfax:
Where: 2910 District Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22031
When: Sundays, 9:30a - 2:30p (year round, times vary)
What’s so great about it? Go for the market, stay for the fun! There is a big green space, movie theater, shopping, coffee shop and a Target across the street. Need I say more?
Where: 1659 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA 22101
When: Fridays, 8a - 12p (May - mid November)
What’s so great about it? The market has an on site Master Gardener Plant Clinic to answer questions about plants in your landscape.
Where: 120 Cherry Street SE, Vienna VA 22180
When: Saturdays, 8a - 12p (May - October)
What’s so great about it? All producers and vendors come from within 150 miles of Vienna - love the local feel!
Fairfax Saturday & Sunday Market
Where: 10500 Page Avenue, Fairfax 22030
When: Saturdays, 8a - 1p; Sundays 10a - 2p (May - October)
What’s so great about it? It’s open 2 days a week and has been voted one of the top 3 markets in Virginia!
Where: The Plaza at Tysons Corner, 7902 Tysons One Place, Tysons Corner, VA 22102
When: Sundays 10a - 2p (June - November)
What’s so great about it? They have monthly, free children's programming available as well as activities for kids including a pirate ship jungle gym and large scale chess board. Stop by for fresh produce and then finish your weekend errands at the mall!
Can you believe how many Farmers Markets there are in our area? Whether you are trying to get out of the house, entertain your kids or cook a delicious recipe using local ingredients, check out one close to you this weekend! Happy shopping!
