This upcoming week, all of the markets in Buncombe County will be open for the season! Four Asheville-area markets will open:
River Arts District Farmers Market: May 3, Wednesdays 2:00–6:00 pm
Oakley Farmers Market: May 4, Thursdays 3:30–6:30 pm
East Asheville Tailgate Market: May 5, Fridays 3:00–6:00 pm
Black Mountain Tailgate Market: May 6, Saturdays 9:00 am–12:00 pm
Spring is a time when many shoppers are drawn to explore farmers markets, perhaps for the first time. Each market throughout the region has its own flair — different vendors, locations, and items available. You might find asparagus at one market but not another this time of year. And you won’t find broccoli and zucchini at any market now, but you will later in the growing season. Be sure to give more than one market a try — throughout the region and throughout the seasons — to find the market that’s right for you. And hey, there might be more than one market where you want to shop, and you can rotate between them — there’s nothing wrong with shopping at more than one market a week.
This time of year, as far as produce goes, you’ll find a wide range of greens. Depending on the market and the farm, you’re also likely to spot asparagus, rhubarb, turnips, radishes, and — in a couple of weeks — strawberries!
What else can you find at early spring tailgate markets? You can always find a range of meats, cheeses, eggs, breads, baked goods, value-added items, plant starts, fresh flowers, and other treats!
Many farmers tailgate markets open next week throughout WNC. Visit ASAP’s list of dates to mark your calendar for when the markets near you get going!
Area farmers tailgate markets take place throughout the region. As always, you can find information about farms, tailgate markets, and farm stands, including locations and hours, by visiting ASAP’s online Local Food Guide.