Guide to Charlotte's farmers markets

There are plenty of Charlotte farmers markets for shoppers to select a broad range of farm-to-table foods grown within the metropolitan area. The markets feature fresh, locally-grown produce, eggs, meats and artisan food products like pickles, cheese and homemade soaps.

Each neighborhood market has its own personality, its own specialties and convenience for the residents of the area.

7th Street Public Market
The 7th Street Public Market was created as a bustling urban food market that includes a hint of an upscale gourmet food store and a down home Charlotte Farmers market in the center city. The market "promotes the food culture of the Carolinas" and provides a venue for local farmers, products, fresh and affordable food and local products. It's open seven days a week and has become a food destination for residents and visitors.

For more information on location and parking details, visit the website.

Charlotte Regional Farmers Market
The Charlotte Regional Farmers Market is one of four regional farmers markets owned by the State of North Carolina and operated by the North Carolina Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer services.

The markets are located strategically across the state to serve North Carolina farmers both large and small. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, located conveniently for buyers and sellers alike. Look for the "Local Farmer, Local Food" flags—they distinguish local farmers from other vendors.

>>WATCH: Virtual tour of Charlotte Regional Farmers Market | Photos

Fresh produce, eggs, pork products, grass-fed beef, goat milk cheese, homemade baked goods, jams and jellies, goat milk soap, fresh-cut flowers and plants are available for purchase. Plants, trees and shrubs are also available for purchase at the market.

Market hours are Tuesday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. but vary by season.

>>More Charlotte-area farmers markets

Kings Drive Farmers Market
The Kings Drive Farmers Market has been serving Charlotte since the early 1940 with seasonal offerings: April and May are known for their fresh strawberries and blueberries, blackberries and raspberries on the slate between May and July.

The site is open on Tuesday and Friday from 6 a.m.-7 p.m, and Saturday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m.

Atherton Farmers Market
The Atherton Farmers Market takes place each Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Describing itself as a "community hub," the weekly market features food and home products made by local farmers and artisans. 

Mecklenberg County Market
Founded in 1937 by the Mecklenburg County Home Extension Club, this is the oldest farmers market in North Carolina. It's still located in its original site, a small, red-brick building in Dilworth. Many of the vendors are the descendants of the original founders.

Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m.-3 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m.

The Bradford Store
If you miss one of Charlotte's many farmers markets, check out The Bradford Store for a selection of locally made goods. Shop for local produce, jam and preserves, prepared foods, cider, meats, and cheese at the charming Bradford Store, located in a registered historic landmark. The store was established in 1912 on a cotton and corn form owned by William Bradford. It provided the small community with a store, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, and sawmill. 

The store is open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cox Media Group