Officially, it may be spring, but for many parts of North Carolina the past two weeks have felt more like winter. This weekend should be nicer across most of the state, so why not get out and enjoy the weather at a local farmers market? North Carolina is fortunate to have an abundance of farmers markets in almost every part of the state, and five are managed by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. If you are looking for something to do this weekend, consider these activities at a farmers market near you:
1. WNC Farmers Market Car Show
Hot rods, muscle cars, classics and motorcycles will be on hand for the first event of its kind at the WNC Farmers Market in Asheville Saturday, April 2. There will be awards, door prizes, a 50/50 raffle and an ugly car contest to benefit the Mission Children’s Hospital. The event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gates open at 9. Here’s the flier for more information.
2. Gourd Day at the Raleigh Farmers Market
A large selection of decorative, functional and creative gourds will be available for purchase during Gourd Day at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh. Visitors also will be able to learn about the history of gourds and take seeds home to grow in their own garden. The free event is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3. Visit the Greenery Shed at the Charlotte Farmers Market
Wake up early, grab a cup of coffee from the Greatful Growers Harvest Moon food cart and stroll through the Greenery Shed, which opens for its first weekend this year. You can find a variety of perennials and shrubs for your home landscaping projects. The Charlotte Farmers Market also has a large selection of grass-fed and organic beef, eggs, chicken, pork and emu.
4. Sign up for the Triad’s Largest Yard Sale
If you’ve finished your spring cleaning and need to sell your stuff, swing by the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market to sign up for the WSJS Triad’s Largest Yard Sale, which will be held April 9. While you’re at the market, pick up some locally grown greens, turnips or sweet potatoes or check out one of three new vendors in the Market Shoppes. You can even connect with the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market on Facebook.
As temperatures warm and more fruits and vegetables become available, there will be even more events at your local farmers market. Download this helpful produce availability chart to know when you can expect your favorite commodities in season. And, if you are looking for a closer farmers market or roadside stand, you can search for the one nearest you at www.ncfarmfresh.com.
Have you been to one of the five farmers markets managed by the NCDA&CS? What’s your favorite part about going to a farmers market?