That moment has always defined the magic I felt around farmers markets. More than a location for commerce but rather a gathering place for community and kindness.

The first summer I lived in Georgia was lonely. My family had moved into a small, barely-there city outside of metro Atlanta a few months prior, and I was quite an unsuccessful new kid. By the time the school year ended, I had made only one friend and still wasn’t sure how I fit in with the rest of my peers.
I can remember pondering ways to survive second grade on the way home from Sunday dinner when I noticed a small fruit stand off the intersection outside of my under-developed neighborhood. A single man was tending to the produce display. His worn hands and work boots gave away that he was a farmer, but his smile convinced us to venture off the main road.
Somewhere between small talk and attempts to charm down the prices, the vendor noticed me peering suspiciously at him from the backseat.
When my parents returned with the two small bags of fruits and vegetables, my mother asked me to open my hand for a gift and promptly plopped a fresh peach into my palm. Apparently, the man had asked about what I might like and included something extra.
That moment has always defined the magic I felt around farmers markets. More than a location for commerce but rather a gathering place for community and kindness.
East Atlanta District Village Farmers Market

East Atlanta District Village Farmers Market is no stranger to the food scene. Connecting farmers to foodies since 2006, EASV has made a name for itself as more than a market but a community space. It has even earned the Reader’s Pick for the best farmers market in Atlanta’s Creative Loafing Magazine five years in a row. It also boasts a list of vendors who provide ethically and sustainably produced staples and a collection of artisan goods.
Visitors with children can look forward to the Edible Learning Garden, an onsite garden learning experience.
Dogs are welcome! If you bring a furry friend, the market asks that you keep them on a leash. The regular season runs from March to November from 4-8 pm.
The Green Market at Piedmont Park
Recognized by Access Atlanta as one of the top five farmers markets in the city, Green Market has become a reliable bridge between local producers and the community by providing a space for commerce but, more importantly, sustainability. Visitors can become connected with local farmers and artisans to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and crafted goods.
Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.

Atlanta State Farmers Market
One of the largest outdoor markets of its kind in the U.S., Atlanta State Farmers Market is a produce powerhouse. With facilities spanning 150 acres, visitors are bound to find something they enjoy between the garden center and onsite restaurant. But, as impressive as the site is, its most important feat is supporting the surrounding community’s health through education and outreach. In the fall and winter, other seasonal items, such as Christmas trees and pumpkins will be available.

Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market
Perfect for all-around foodies, the Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market is a perfect example of how the original markets have become modernized. The first permanent food truck site in the city, AFTPM hosts a wide variety of vendors, so it’s important to check their Facebook page for the schedule of who will be present each day. Some regulars you should keep an eye out for include Barbara & Ginny’s Eggs & Produce, Sweet Tea Factory, and Hardright Bakery.
Live music will also be featured Thursday through Sunday from 6-9 p.m.
Leashed dogs are welcome, and visitors are encouraged to bring coolers, chairs and blankets to enjoy their time.

Avondale Estates Farmers Market
Need farmers market you can visit year-round? Avondale Estates Farmers Market is here to provide a dynamic space to get fresh produce and have a good time. Since 2013, farmers and small vendors have been able to be connected to their community, and today, the market supports up to 40 vendors!
In addition to selling food and products, visitors can also enjoy chef demonstrations they can try at home!

Grant Park Farmers Market
Voted “Best Farmers Market” in Creative Loafing and Atlanta Magazine, critics and regulars agree that Grant Park Farmers Market is the place to be. Permanent, monthly, and seasonal vendors attend the market, but a weekly schedule is only available if you subscribe to its newsletter.
In addition to locally-grown produce, visitors can enjoy artisanal foods and weekly celebrity chef demonstrations.
Dogs are welcome but be sure they are accustomed to other dogs and remain on a leash.

Lilburn Farmers Market
Lilburn Farmers Market hosts an impressive and diverse group of vendors. Visitors can look forward to seasonal fruits and vegetables, smoked salmon, and international foods each week. Inedible goods like pet treats and handcrafted soap are also available.
Though everyone can get their grocery shopping done, the most attractive thing about this market is its connection to the community. LFM is volunteer operated and cosponsored by the Presbyterian Church.

Peachtree Road Farmers Market
Since 2007, Peachtree Road Farmers Market has been a leader in good food for the community by connecting over 50 vendors and consumers each week, rain or shine. All of the farms present are Certified Naturally Grown or Certified Organic, and those who prepare food using local, sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients in their products.

Freedom Farmers Market
Freedom Farmers Market is one of the few of its kind that is open year-round, making scheduling a visit that much easier.
Not only can patrons indulge in the wide range of organic and local products but live music and hot prepared meals. Regular events include fruit/vegetable of the month and chef demonstrations.
Accessibility is also a priority. FFM can be reached by foot, bike, car, and the MARTA.
Morningside Farmers Market
Morningside Farmers Market began as a way for local farmers to provide seasonal staples to local chefs. After one of the founders suggested bringing extra food to sell directly to locals for a week, the rest was history. Decades later, some of the same original vendors and new faces gather to supply certified organic produce to the community.
Diverse food groups and artisan goods are available year-round. However, visitors must join its weekly newsletter for the most updated schedule.

