Farmers’ market season is here, and that means the freshest produce, meat, dairy products, and baked goods will soon be filling your larder. The farmers’ market phenomenon in NYC has grown over the years, starting from a few key markets to dozens of markets in every borough. These markets allow farmers to gain an additional income source by allowing them to sell their products directly to the public, and they provide people living in NYC with direct farm-to-table access to freshly harvested food.
Union Square Greenmarket
Union Square Park (North and West sides)
8 a.m. to 6 p.m. year-round on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
The granddaddy; the Big Kahuna; the Union Square Greenmarket is probably the most recognizable and famous farmers’ market, thanks to its central location in NYC’s Union Square. Considering that it sits right atop the Union Square subway station, most New Yorkers have seen it at least once as they’ve stepped out of the station. The market is open year-round on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The market puts out a monthly vendor schedule so you can see if and when your vendor will be on site. The schedule also indicates which vendors are certified organic or animal welfare-approved. In addition to buying amazing, locally-grown fruits, veggies, flowers, meats, sweets, and treats, you can also take advantage of market-sponsored events like book signings, classes, and demonstrations.
Wholesale Greenmarket
290 Halleck Street (at Viele Avenue) in the Bronx
Tuesday through Saturday from April 8th until December 31st
2 a.m. to 8 a.m.
Wholesale, you say? Yup. The Wholesale Greenmarket located in Hunts Point may require a bit of a trek in order to reach it, but if you own a restaurant or small business that requires you get the freshest fruits and vegetables available, you’ll want to make the trip. The market’s stringent rules require that most of the produce is harvested 24 hours before it hits the tables here and that it’s locally grown. Over 100 local farms and vendors sell their products here. This means only the freshest produce around is gracing your guests’ tables. Take close note of the operating hours; it’s opens in the wee hours of the morning and closes just around the time other New Yorkers are starting their days.
New York Botanical Garden Greenmarket
Inside the Mosholu Gate entrance on Southern Boulevard between Mosholu Parkway and Bedford
There are now two reasons to visit the New York Botanical Garden Greenmarket this summer; in addition to the fact that entrance to the Garden is free on Wednesdays, that’s also the day that the Garden hosts its very own farmers’ market. Now when you take in the spectacular beauty of the Garden, you’ll also be able to fill up your grocery bag with incredible fresh produce from local farms and vendors. One of the best things about this market is that the Garden is constantly hosting events like cooking demonstrations, classes, and book readings by key authors. It truly is a learning experience.
Mount Sinai Greenmarket
99th Street and Madison Avenue
Wednesdays this summer, June 29th to November 23rd
If you live or work near Mount Sinai Hospital, or you just happen to find yourself in the area one summer Wednesday after a stroll in Central Park, you’ll want to make a stop at the Mount Sinai Greenmarket. This market is open Wednesdays throughout the summer and features delicious produce from farmers and vendors . You can get tasty eggs and chicken from Dutchess County’s Knoll Krest Farm or heavenly, freshly baked bread and pastries from Meredith’s Bakery.
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