Farmers markets are a great way to stock up on fresh, local, and seasonal produce to help meet your daily needs. It’s recommended to get at least three servings of veggies and two of fruit per day (a serving is about the size of your fist). Farmers markets are also an excellent way to provide communities with fresh fruits and veggies in areas with more limited access to grocery stores. Read on to learn why you should take advantage of local farmers markets and where to find them in Essex County.
Why You Should Purchase Fruit + Veggies from a Farmers Market
- The produce is often more nutritious. The longer the produce sits on a grocery shelf, the more nutrients it loses.
- It’s better for the environment since you’re shopping in-season. Be sure to bring your own reusable bags for produce.
- Worried about no organic certification? Many farms don’t have USDA organic certification due to the cost — simply ask what types of pesticides they use. Always wash your produce before consuming it. Remember that any fruit or veggie, regardless of certification, is better than none.
Outdoor Farmers Markets
Bloomfield Community Farmers Market | 90 Broad Street
Tuesdays | 3:30PM-6:30PM
The Bloomfield Community Farmers Market runs in the Bloomfield Public Library Courtyard from June 7th through October 25th. The market features local vendors like bloom CHILDCARE + COWORKING, Cozz Coffee, Aunt Miss Christine Handmade Pierogi, and more. The market is providing “market cash” to qualifying families and individuals. Anyone who qualifies should bring their proof at the information table to receive their market cash.
East Hanover’s Farmers Market | Lurker Park, 631 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover
Mondays | 12PM-6PM
While East Hanover’s Farmers Market has not officially confirmed its 2022 season, it was a big hit in 2021 and ran from June to November of last year. Although it’s not as large as other outdoor farmers markets, East Hanover’s Farmers Market is a great place to stock up on awesome snack options that satisfy that sweet tooth like fresh peaches or cherries. MG will update this page when the 2022 season is announced.
Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Dining in Montclair
Maplewood Farmers Market | 1866 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood
Mondays | 2PM-7PM
(Photo credit: @maplewoodfarmersmarket)
If you’re looking for a smaller market as a quick grab-and-go stop, the Maplewood Farmers Market is the perfect place. Open Mondays 2PM-7PM starting on June 6th, this is a great spot to stock up on fresh fruits and veggies to make your workweek lunches even easier. 2022 vendors have yet to be announced, but past vendors have included Jersey Fresh Fruits & Vegetables, Local Essex County Breweries and Distilleries, Pickles & Olives, Pastries & Preserves, and more.
Montclair Farmers Market | 86 Walnut Street, Montclair
Saturdays | 8AM-2PM (June to November) + 8AM-1PM (December – May)
(Photo credit: @montclair_farmersmarket)
From local and sustainable produce to proteins like eggs, meats, and wild-caught fish, you can buy just about anything. The wide array of vendors also features items like baked goods, spices, pickles, coffee, honey, and more. The market even has an awesome food truck, Mezoco – Mexican taqueria, for a quick bite while you shop.
Morristown Farmers Market | Spring Street + Morris Street, Morristown
Sundays | 8:30AM-1PM
With a wide selection of vendors, this outdoor farmers market that runs from June 19th to mid-November has all your favorites, like bread, pastries, cheeses, olives, fruits and veggies, pickles, and proteins like eggs, fish, and grass-fed beef. Produce is also grown using sustainable practices and certified organic farming. There’s Jeff’s organic produce, Pickle-licious, Jersey Girl cheese, and everything you need to build the perfect cheese board.
See More: A Registered Dietitian’s Go-To Meals at Montclair Restaurants
NDD Downtown Market | PSE&G/Prudential Plaza at 80 Park Place
Thursday | 11AM – 3PM
The 2022 NDD Downtown Market runs from June 2nd to October 13th on Thursdays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and is more than just a farmers market. This is the place to go for live music, an Urban Agriculture Cooperative farm stand, arts and crafts activities, and tables to educate the community on local businesses and organizations. This market also has various food vendors, some of which have previously included The Cake Pound, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, Kickerfeast, and more.
Nutley Farmers Market | Municipal Parking Lot 9 – 537 Franklin Avenue, Nutley
Sundays | 9AM-2PM
(Photo credit: @nutleynjgovernment)
Not only can you stock up the pantry essentials from June to October, but there’s live music while you shop, making it a great Sunday funday for the family. Be sure to check out vendors like Empanada Lady, Gourmet Nuts + Dried Fruit, and Amazing Fungi. MG Tip: Parking is available, enter the parking lot through lot 7.
South Orange Downtown Farmers Market | Sloan Street Parking Lot
Wednesdays | 2PM – 7PM
This market kicked back up starting on June 1st from 2PM-7PM. It will continue every Wednesday from 2PM-7PM, rain or shine until October 26th. Vendors include Stony Hill Farms, Grandma Emma’s, Josh Chocolates, and more. The full list of vendors can be found here.
