Best Outdoor Farmers' Markets in Vermont

With nice weather in the spring, summer, and fall months, Vermont’s outdoor farmers' markets are in full swing. The green surfaces, parks, and parking lots are transformed into marketplaces. They typically offer locally grown produce, handmade jewelry, craft beer, grass-fed beef, and much more. Popularized in the 1970s, Vermont now boasts about 70 farmers' markets across the state! It would be difficult to crown one of the markets as the number one, but here are some of the best outdoor farmers' markets Vermont has to offer!

Burlington Farmers Market

The Burlington Farmers Market is surely one of the most famous in Vermont. It started in 1980 and has been a favorite ever since, attracting locals and tourists alike! With over 90 vendors in the summer and 40 in the winter, you can find seasonal produce, agricultural produce, paintings, prepared foods, and artisan crafts. Vendors offer Vermont staples like organic fruits and vegetables, wine, craft beer, and pasture-raised meat. There are unique offerings, too, like handcrafted jewelry, pottery, flowers, soaps, and lotions.

Waitsfield Farmers Market

The Waitsfield Farmers Market started in 1993 and has been the go-to place for those who appreciate local farmers, bakers, makers and artisans for decades. The carefully picked vendors provide quality products from the beautiful Mad River Valley.  Here you’ll find offerings that are unique to the valley like craft beers and fruit trees! Every Saturday, from May to October, the Mad River Green is filled with 60 vendors. Visitors can pick up produce, maple syrup, plants, meats, and cheese while taking in the breathtaking 360-degree mountain views!

Winooski Farmers Market

Every Sunday from June through the end of September, the Winooski Farmers Market is the place to be! The market is located in the heart of downtown, near some of the area's best restaurants, shops, and the Winooski River Walk. Here you can find a great selection of fresh seasonal produce in a highly relaxing atmosphere. You can also find an exquisite selection of prepared foods from around the world! Small but mighty, Winooski’s market also hosts live music, performances, and kids’ activities in the late summer.

Capital City Farmers Market, Montpelier

Another one of Vermont’s best outdoor farmers' markets has been around since 1977. It brings local producers and customers together with a variety of local meats, vegetables, jewelry, and flowers. The market is open every Saturday from May to October–and twice a month in Winter– in downtown Montpelier. With offerings from about 50 vendors, shoppers can explore cuisines from around the world while listening to live music! This market also hosts special events like the Strawberry Festival, Corn Roast, and Fall Festival.

Craftsbury Farmers Market

The Craftsbury Farmers Market is a hub of community life in the Northeast Kingdom. The market’s motto is “Food & Crafts Less Traveled”. This area has a strong appreciation for arts and education, which translates into the unique offerings at this market. Here, people can learn about puppet making, wool spinning, apple pressing and other fun things at events throughout the season. The market is held on Saturdays and offers free family-friendly entertainment.

Vermont Farmers Market, Rutland 

One of the largest and most diverse farmers' markets in Vermont, Rutland operates 52 weeks out of the year. The market brings together over 100 vendors from Vermont every year. The Rutland Downtown Farmers Market has a selection of meat, maple syrup, flowers, cheese, baked goods, and handmade soaps. In May, the market opens for the season and runs every Saturday and Wednesday in Depot Park in historic Downtown Rutland. During the winter, you can shop at Vermont’s first indoor Winter Farmers Market every Saturday.

Vermont is a special place for so many reasons, and our widespread, community-based farmers' markets are a great representation of local values. Come experience one for yourself to meet new friends, support local businesses, and eat great food!

This blog is sponsored by Zippy Shell Moving and Storage NV.