Staunton’s Farmers’ Markets and Their Community Benefits
Staunton, Virginia, boasts a vibrant network of farmers’ markets offering fresh, local produce and connecting communities with the region’s rich agricultural heritage. These markets not only provide access to high-quality food but also foster a sense of place and support sustainable practices.
Your Ultimate Farmers Market Shopping Kit!
- Excited to explore the fresh, local bounty of your farmer’s market? A little preparation makes the experience even more enjoyable. Here’s your essential guide to shopping like a pro:
- Reusable Bags Galore! Skip the plastic and bring a mix of sturdy totes, mesh produce bags, and a cooler bag for perishables—your eco-friendly shopping dream team.
- Cash is Key: While some vendors accept cards, cash (especially small bills) keeps transactions quick and seamless, adding to the market charm.
- The Flexible Shopping List: Have a rough idea of what you need, check what’s in season, but stay open to irresistible finds.
- Comfortable Shoes (Your Best Ally): Expect lots of walking, so keep your feet happy with comfy footwear.
- Cooler Confidence (Essential for Warm Days): Keep meats, cheeses, and other perishables fresh with a cooler and ice packs.
- Curiosity & Conversations (Your Secret Weapon): Engage with vendors—they love sharing insights about their products and offering expert tips.
- Sanitizer or Wipes (For a Quick Refresh): Markets get busy, so a little extra cleanliness never hurts.
Bonus Additions:
- A Basket or Wagon (For the Dedicated Shopper): Planning a big haul? Save your arms with a rolling basket or wagon.
- Water Bottle (Stay Hydrated!): Market browsing can be thirsty work—bring a water bottle to stay refreshed.
Armed with this kit, you’re all set to soak in the colors, flavors, and aromas of your local farmer’s market. Enjoy the experience—happy shopping!
Staunton Farmers’ Market
The Staunton Farmers’ Market is a vibrant community event held every Saturday from 7:00 am to noon, April through November, at the Wharf Parking Lot on Johnson Street. This bustling market features a diverse selection of local vendors offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised meats and eggs, artisan breads and cheeses, fresh-cut flowers, and handcrafted goods. Live music and friendly faces enhance the welcoming atmosphere, making it a beloved Staunton staple.
In addition to its regular offerings, the market hosts special events throughout the season, such as the annual Strawberry Festival and Pumpkin Festival, celebrating local produce and community spirit. The market also participates in the SNAP EBT program, making fresh, local food accessible to a broader community.
Staunton Winter Market
During the colder months (January-March), the Staunton Winter Market fills the gap at the Gypsy Hill Park Pavilion (300 W Frederick St.) every Saturday from 9:00 am to noon. Here you’ll find a curated selection of locally produced meats, cheeses, baked goods, honey, and artisan wares, perfect for stocking your pantry or finding unique gifts.
Nu-Beginning Farm Store
Nu-Beginning Farm Store, located at 221 North Lewis Street in Staunton, Virginia, is a year-round local farm store and catering company. They offer farm-fresh, organic foods and cater to various dietary restrictions, including gluten-free and vegan options. In addition to their own produce and grass-fed beef, they provide a selection of goods from neighboring farms, promoting a farm-to-table experience. Their offerings include fresh produce, local dairy products, A2 cheeses, and prepared meals. They also offer private chef meal plans tailored to specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free and medically prescribed dietary restrictions. The store operates with the following hours:
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday to Saturday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
They also host a Saturday Breakfast Buffet from 9:30 am to noon, featuring items like cheesy eggs, baked blueberry oatmeal, bacon, sausage patties, pancakes, and biscuits.
Beyond Staunton
The bounty extends beyond city limits. Here are a few additional farmers’ markets worth exploring:
JMD Farmer Market (Middlebrook)
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, this lively market at 27 Niswander Road in Staunton has grown into a premier agro-tourism destination, offering far more than just fresh produce. Visitors can explore a wide array of locally sourced vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, and honey, as well as an impressive selection of plants and flowers. Whether you’re in search of juicy strawberries, rare perennials, or premium meats, there’s something for everyone.
With its unbeatable selection, knowledgeable staff, and strong community focus, this market is a must-visit for anyone seeking fresh, local products and a delightful day out.
Stuart’s Draft Farmer Market (Stuart’s Draft)
Located at 2964 Stuarts Draft Hwy in Stuarts Draft, this market offers a warm, hometown feel alongside an impressive selection of fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items. Customers rave about the welcoming atmosphere, with many describing their visits as more like stopping by a friend’s house than simply shopping. Owners are known for their kindness and dedication, ensuring every guest feels valued and leaves with a smile.
Whether you’re picking up perfectly ripe strawberries, scoring a deal on blemished tomatoes for canning, or planning a delicious farm-to-table meal, this market delivers quality and value. With a convenient pickup process and a charming open-air setting, it’s no wonder first-time visitors quickly become loyal customers.
Crossroads Farm Organics (Stuarts Draft)
Crossroads Farm Organics, at 550 Bowman Springs Road in Staunton, Virginia, is a certified organic farm dedicated to sustainable practices. They offer a CSA program with fresh, seasonal produce, available for pickup every Wednesday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
The farm grows a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers year-round, including greens, root vegetables, tomatoes, and strawberries. They also provide organic, non-GMO eggs from pasture-raised chickens. Visitors can tour the farm by appointment. Contact Crossroads Farm Organics to learn more or join their CSA!
Malcolm’s Market Garden (Staunton)
Malcolm’s Market Garden, located at 620 Afton Road in Staunton, Virginia, is a small-scale farm dedicated to sustainable, high-quality produce. Run by Daniel and Ashley Malcolm since 2013, they grow a diverse range of seasonal vegetables, focusing on freshness and soil health. While they no longer offer a CSA program, they sell directly to the community through local farmers markets.
As a regular vendor at the Staunton Farmers Market (April–November), they offer crisp greens, root vegetables, and fragrant herbs, connecting customers with fresh, locally grown food. Their commitment to sustainability and quality makes them a valued part of Staunton’s agricultural scene.
Benefits that Stretch Beyond the Basket
Supporting local farmers’ markets offers a multitude of benefits. Farmers’ markets provide access to food grown with sustainable practices, often using fewer pesticides and chemicals. The freshness translates to superior taste and nutritional value. Purchasing directly from farmers allows you to contribute directly to the economic health of your community and ensure the viability of local farms. Locally-produced food reduces transportation emissions and fosters a more sustainable food system, and farmers’ markets serve as vibrant gathering places, fostering connections with local producers and neighbors.
So next time you’re looking for a delightful shopping experience and a chance to connect with your community, head to one of Staunton’s many farmers’ markets. You’ll be bringing home not just fresh produce, but also a piece of the Shenandoah Valley’s agricultural heritage.