A Guide to Richmond-Area Farmers Markets
BY JULIA RAIMONDI
Over here at RVAx, we love ourselves a farmers market. There’s something about farm-fresh and handmade goods that just can’t quite be replicated from big box stores or online shopping. Lucky for us, the Richmond area has plenty of markets just about every day of the week to pick and shop from.
Saturday Markets
Image Source: Richmond Night Market
RVA Big Market
First on our list is arguably also the largest, spanning a good section of Bryan Park on Saturday mornings. Wander the various makers and vendors as they hawk goods ranging from fresh produce, artwork, and delicious desserts. Don’t forget to drop by one of the food trucks for a breakfast on the go.
Hours: November–April, 9 am–12 pm; May–October, 8 am–12 pm
Richmond Night Market
This market runs every second Saturday at the 17th Street Market in Shockoe Bottom. Richmond Night Markets are more than just produce and goods, there’s also a live music stage, a creative kids hangout, and a live makerspace for artists.
Hours: April–December, every second Saturday, 5–9 pm
Saint Stephen’s Farmers Market
Located at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Westhampton, this year-round market provides everything you need to make a weekend feast from seasonal produce to prepared and specialty foods and more. If you are a recipient of SNAP benefits, you can also use your EBT card to pay for goods at their market vendors.
Hours: October–April, 9 am–12 pm; May–September, 8 am–12 pm
West End Farmers Market
If you live in the far West End of Henrico County, you’re in luck. The West End Market is located at Discovery United Methodist Church and is open on Saturdays year-round. Subscribe to their newsletter to receive weekly updates on the market’s vendors.
Hours: Year-round, 9 am–12 pm
Dorey Park Farmers Market
Another Henrico County option, this market is located in Dorey Park and contains more than just your regular market vendors. Check out their website to see what special events are being hosted, including live music, petting farms, bounce houses, and cooking demos.
Hours: June–October, 9 am–12 pm
Latino Farmers Market
Expect fun music, excellent food, and Latin cultural exchanges at this market in Chesterfield County. It also boasts some of the longest hours on our list, meaning you have plenty of time to meander the market and enjoy all it has to offer.
Hours: April–October, 8 am–1 pm
Lakeside Farmers Market
If you miss this market on Saturday, don’t worry, because it’s also available on Wednesdays! This market is also partially shielded from the elements under the covered pavilions of the Lakeside Towne Center.
Hours: Saturdays, 9 am–12 pm outside, 9 am–3 pm inside; Wednesdays, 9 am–1 pm
Sunday Markets
Image Source: GrowRVA
South of the James Farmers Market
This is the market that kick-started the Big RVA Market — make sure it's on your must-visit list! Nestled quaintly in Forest Hill Park, this market provides everything you need to go into the week. Pick up fresh produce and picnic in the park, or take your furry friend and go for a walk after you shop.
Hours: 10 am–1 pm
Carytown Farmers Market
Located right by its eponymous neighborhood, the Carytown Farmers Market can be found in the parking lot outside City Stadium. Other than its usual market, it hosts several craft fairs a year, including the Spring Artisan Market.
Hours: May 3–October 25, 9 am–1 pm
RVA Black Farmers Market
This bi-monthly market is dedicated to supporting Black growers and creators while also providing the surrounding community with access to fresh food. It's located off Westwood Ave in the North Side, providing food access to the area.
Hours: Every second and fourth Sunday, 11 am–3 pm
Weekday Markets
Image Source: Birdhouse Farmers Market
OnTheSquareVA Farmers Market
Work downtown? This open-air lunchtime market provides local produce, handmade goods, and various lunch options. Switch up the office routine with a walk over to the market!
Hours: May–August, Thursdays, 11 am–1 pm
Birdhouse Farmers Market
This weekday market is special in that it provides both online ordering and in-person shopping options. Order ahead so all you have to do is pick up your fresh produce on your way home from work. It’s located conveniently off 195 in Randolph, making it easy to get to on your evening commute.
Hours: May–November, Tuesdays, 3–6:30 pm; December–April, Tuesdays, 4–6 pm
Huguenot-Robious Farmers Outdoor Market
This weekday market is available year-round at the Great Big Greenhouse in Huguenot Village Shopping Center. Don’t forget to drop in the greenhouse for all your planting needs after you visit their pet-friendly market. Also, once a year, the market hosts a special kids day at the market, so keep an eye on their posted events.
Hours: Thursdays, 10 am–2 pm
Chesterfield County Farmers Market
Live or work south of the river and don’t feel like making the drive into the city for the farmers market? There’s one right in your proverbial backyard! The Chesterfield County Farmers Market is located conveniently for residents in the County Government Complex all summer long to meet your needs.
Hours: Wednesdays, 11 am–2 pm
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Julia is a writer based out of the Greater Richmond area and loves to share everything she thinks makes this region great. When not writing, find her exploring Richmond’s food and music scenes.