Staying Fit
It’s time to celebrate your local food producers. We’ve located some of the most historic farmers markets in the country that showcase regional and local foods while offering a dose of Americana charm. Before the United States became a country, farmers markets anchored communities. Today, we still have the opportunity to commune with and support farmers markets for fresh seasonal foods and events.
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The Old Town Farmers’ Market has occupied the same space on Market Square in Alexandria, Virginia, for 270 years.
Cade Martin for Visit Alexandria
Old Town Farmers’ Market
Alexandria, Virginia
If you want to shop at the same farmers market where George Washington sent his produce from Mount Vernon to be sold, you can. Located adjacent to Alexandria City Hall, Old Town Farmers’ Market is the oldest farmers market operating continuously at the same space — for 270 years on Market Square. Shoppers can choose from a large range of goods from local producers and makers every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon. More than 70 vendors offer fruits, breads, vegetables, cheeses, pastries and fresh pasta. Nonedible options include cut flowers, soaps, jewelry and art. Some of the vendors have been selling fresh harvested foods for generations. Two vendors, Bigg Riggs Farm and The Lamb’s Quarter, have had farms in their families for more than 240 years, since before the American Revolution.
Insider’s tip: Virginia is known for its cured country ham. Find some of the tastiest at Calhoun’s Ham House & Country Deli, another favorite with locals.
Visitors can purchase food, art and more at the OKC Farmers Public Market in Oklahoma City.
Tarra Quinn
OKC Farmers Public Market
Oklahoma City
Since 1928, the Spanish colonial revival art deco building that houses the OKC Farmers Public Market has been an iconic landmark building for the city and state. Burt and Jody McAnally bought the building in 2002 with the intent to preserve it and revive its original function as a lasting part of Oklahoma heritage. The first floor remains as the original farmers market space, while the top floor is used for events. Many singing cowboy stars and country-western dancers have graced the original maple floors. Today, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts weddings, parties and meetings. The OKC Farmers Public Market runs every Saturday throughout the year from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (seniors shop first from 9 to 10 a.m.). Vendors offer fresh seasonal produce, meats, dairy, jams and jellies, baked goods, canned goods and the famous Oklahoma blackberries when in season. You’ll find makers peddling crafts, woodworking, pottery, art and more.
