If you’re the type to serve your sweetheart a locally sourced Valentine’s Day meal, take note that you’ll need to stop at a farmers tailgate market tomorrow or Wednesday to collect ingredients in time for Feb. 14. Pretty much any meal you shop for and prepare yourself hits the mark for a romantic gesture, but we’ve included a few suggestions to really get into the spirit.
Fresh at Farmers Markets
Start your shopping list and get meal inspiration each week with ASAP’s roundup of what’s fresh at farmers markets. Although this report focuses on vendors at Buncombe County markets, many products mentioned can be found at markets throughout the region. Want to get this report in your inbox each week? Subscribe to ASAP’s Weekly Farmers Market Report newsletter. Looking for a yearlong view? Check out ASAP’s produce seasonality chart.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
It’s common for chickens to slow down their laying in January and February, meaning that eggs can rise to a new level of scarcity at winter markets. If you’re looking to score a dozen (or more), it’s best to get to market early and head straight for one of the following vendors.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
An abundance of leafy greens cover farmers tailgate markets these days, and even if you regularly fill your bag with kale and collards, there are more options than ever for trying new varieties. Here’s a rundown of what you might discover at markets this winter.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
We’re finally in for some colder nights this coming week, so it’s a good time to stock up on stew ingredients to fortify you against the chill. Whether your preferred simmering method involves an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or good, old-fashioned Dutch oven, your first step is to gather everything you can at a winter farmers tailgate market. We’ve got a few ideas to get you started.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
This past December didn’t bring the same significant snowfall and freezing temperatures we’ve seen in recent years, and as a result we’re seeing some unexpected produce at winter farmers tailgate markets alongside winter stalwarts like sweet potatoes, apples, and collard greens.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
Winter has arrived (recent weather notwithstanding) and many year-round farmers tailgate markets have moved indoors. Though fewer in number, these markets still offer the best of local, seasonal produce. Throughout the colder season you will find plenty of storage crops, like sweet potatoes, potatoes, apples, cabbage, turnips, winter squash, beets, and carrots. Many farms make use of greenhouses or high tunnels to continue producing salad mixes, lettuces, and dark, leafy greens straight through to springtime. Meats, eggs, cheeses, bread, and artisan foods and products will also be available.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
Tomorrow is your last chance to shop local farmers tailgate markets this year! The final two markets of the season are tomorrow (Saturday): Asheville City Market (downtown from 9 a.m. to noon) and The Holiday Bazaar (on the UNCA campus from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). All markets will take an hiatus through the end of the year. Indoor winter markets, including in Buncombe County Asheville City Market (Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon in the Masonic Temple) and River Arts District Winter Market (Wednesdays 3 to 6 p.m. at Plēb Urban Winery) will return beginning January 4. A full list of holiday and winter markets throughout the region can be found at asapconnections.org.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
This week offers several prime opportunities to shop local farmers tailgate markets for holiday gifts, party preparations—or just your weekly grocery needs. East Asheville Tailgate Market’s holiday market and fundraiser is today, from 3 to 6 pm, plus there are still several Saturday morning (Asheville City Market and The Holiday Bazaar) and midweek (West Asheville Tailgate Holiday Market, River Arts District Winter Market, Weaverville Tailgate Winter Market) markets open for convenient shopping.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
Are you a handmade gift-giver? Farmers tailgate markets are a great place to get inspiration and ingredients for these extra-special holiday gifts (or treats to keep for yourself—you definitely deserve it). Here are a few DIY ideas to get your started this season.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
While some farmers tailgate markets have closed for the season, a growing number in Buncombe County offer special holiday markets or even run through the winter. These markets often have different hours or locations than their regular season counterparts, so check the list below to make sure you know when and where to find local food in December.