Buncombe County Farmers Markets Bring Winter Cheer

News Summary

Buncombe County is keeping the local food scene alive this winter with year-round farmers tailgate markets. Four weekly markets are set to showcase fresh produce and artisan foods, despite the cold weather. The North Asheville Tailgate Market, Asheville City Market, River Arts District Winter Market, and Weaverville Winter Tailgate Market will all feature local vendors prepared to provide the community with nourishing and flavorful options. In addition, efforts are being made to support farmers who have faced recent challenges, ensuring that the spirit of the community remains resilient and vibrant during the winter months.

Buncombe County Farmers Markets Bring Cheer Despite Winter Blues

As winter settles in, Buncombe County is keeping the heart of the local food scene beating strong with its year-round farmers tailgate markets. This winter, the community can look forward to four lively weekly markets that showcase the flavorful bounty of the season, featuring both fresh produce and delightful artisan foods. Even though the chilly weather can be tough, the markets are bursting with colors and flavors that remind us of the fresh ingredients that nourish our bodies and spirits.

Winter Markets in Action

The North Asheville Tailgate Market is making its debut on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting January 4, at UNC Asheville. This cozy spot will host an array of familiar faces from the regular season, including Black Trumpet Farm, Good Wheel Farm, Spinning Spider Creamery, McConnell Farms, and Dolci Di Maria. It’s a great chance to stock up on delicious goodies while supporting local farms.

Meanwhile, the Asheville City Market swings into action on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., kicking off on January 11, right on North Market Street in downtown Asheville. Get excited to see beloved vendors like Highgate Farm and Simple Bread, along with returning favorites such as Lee’s One Fortune Farm and Olivette Farm. This is the perfect weekend stop for food lovers!

Discover More Winter Wonders

Don’t forget about the River Arts District Winter Market, which opens its doors on Wednesdays starting January 8, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at AB Tech. It’s another fab opportunity to gather winter produce from Full Sun Farm and wild East Farm. Plus, guests can enjoy specialty items like pork sausage from Sugar Hollow Farm, adding some warmth to those cold winter evenings.

If you’re near Weaverville, the Weaverville Winter Tailgate Market is also getting in on the action. This bustling market will be up and running on Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m., starting January 8. A unique mix of local farms and artisan vendors awaits, promising delightful finds for everyone.

Beyond Buncombe: An Expanding Network

Columbus Winter Market, Saluda Winter Market, and Rutherford County Winter Farmers Market. There’s even the Jackson County Farmers Market to explore! Not to mention, South Carolina customers can check out the Hub City Farmers Market and nutritional initiatives in markets like Nourish Knoxville’s Winter Farmers’ Market for even more seasonal goodness.

A Community Resilient in Crisis

Sarah Clayton—have faced the grim reality of lost crops and livestock. In response to these hardships, Brevard High School has become a lifeline as a gathering point for local farmers in need of supplies.

While the immediate needs are being addressed, there are ongoing efforts to assist these farmers in selling their remaining products fresh from before the storm. The full impact of these losses on food prices may not be fully felt until months later when consumers start noticing changes at the grocery store.

The Power of Community Support

Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables program and the Farm Fresh Produce Prescription initiative aim to widen access to nourishing produce for those in need through participating markets.