Photo by Lexi Coon.
Shoppers peruse fruits and vegetables at the Valleydale Farmers Market in the parking lot of Faith Presbyterian Church.
It wouldn’t seem like spring or summer on the 280 corridor without the opening of farmers markets. They provide a great source of local crafts and fresh produce, as well as a relaxing, family-friendly way to enjoy a Saturday morning or weekday afternoon.
The following is a guide to the markets in the area this season.
The Marketplace at Lee Branch
► Opening day: May 5
► Where: Lee Branch Shopping Center, near Carmike Cinemas
► When: Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon
► Information: 208-9259 or themarketplaceatleebranch.com
The market features a weekly lineup of more than 60 sellers with fresh local produce, farm eggs, range-fed meats and specialty cuts. There are vendors offering homemade cakes, desserts and breads. The market also features Alabama-made crafts and live music, as well as hayrides for children in the Kids Market. The closing date is Sept. 29.
Chelsea Farmers Market
► Opening day: May 10
► Where: Chelsea City Hall
► When: Thursday, 3-7 p.m.
► Information: 482-6943 or Facebook@chelseaalfarmersmarket
Organizers are expecting about 20 vendors this season, including several farmers, two meat vendors and a seafood vendor. There will also be local honey, baked goods and craft items. Vendors can only sell things they grow or make. The market runs through Aug. 2.
Valleydale Farmers Market
► Opening day: May 26
► Where: Faith Presbyterian Church, 4601 Valleydale Road
► When: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon
► Information: valleydalefarmersmarket.com or Facebook @ValleydaleFarmersMarket
The market, which began in 2008, usually has anywhere from 10 to 18 vendors, according to organizers. Food on sale includes produce, honey, eggs, preserves, bread, chocolate and, usually, meat. There are also handmade goods such as soaps, jewelry, doll clothes and hair bows.
The market runs each year from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend and will close Sept. 1.
Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair
► Opening day: June 2
► Where: Manning Place in the Mt Laurel town center
► When: Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon
► Information: 408-8696, mtlaurel.com or facebook.com/mtlaurelal
Vendors will once again line the streets of Mt Laurel’s town center this year. The annual market brings in about 20 farmers and craft vendors, who offer local produce, goat cheese, honey and handmade items such as pottery and woodwork. The market will close Oct. 6.
Do you know about a market that didn’t make the list? If so, email erica@starnespublishing.com, and we will add it to the story online.
