Farms can cultivate all sorts of things on the land — from fruits and veggies to fibers and flowers, milks, meats, mushrooms, and more. When folks think of area tailgate markets, they often think of veggies — and for good reason, as vegetables often abound at markets — but there’s a whole cornucopia that can be available on Saturday mornings, even throughout the winter.
Farmers at markets are producing meat that is unparalleled in quality. Farm-raised, grass-fed, pastured, humanely raised, organic — ask your local farmers what practices they use for more precise insight. They’ll be happy to tell you all about the methods behind the meat.
At Asheville City Market, Dry Ridge Farm has pork, beef, and chicken, and Shady Brook Farms offers a range of beef cuts. At Transylvania Farmers Market, Mountain Valley Meats has pork and beef, while Cherryfield Farm features beef and lamb. At the Columbus Farmers Market and YMCA Indoor Winter Market – South, Bradley Farms has beef, pork, and chicken. And, at the YMCA Indoor Winter Market in town, East Fork Farm sells trout, rabbit, turkey, and more.
Mushrooms make a great addition (or alternative) to meat for winter meals. Deep Woods Mushrooms at the Transylvania Farmers Market has mushrooms — as well as dried apples, which make a great midday snack!
Of course, there’s also plenty of vegetables, breads, baked goods, eggs, cheeses, jams, and more to find at winter markets throughout the region. Find a full list of winter markets on our “Winter Farmers Markets” page at asapconnections.org.
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 at appalachiangrown.org.