The Best Farmers Markets in the South

The south is well known for its friendly people and their warm, welcoming smiles and cool, star lit nights with large glasses of iced sweet tea enjoyed on the front porch with friends. The south is also famous for the charm and gentility of its people. And the foods in the south are exceptional. From our buttery, white grits, which are a staple for breakfast in the mornings, to the low country shrimp and delicious, hot, freshly made pecan pie. Any way you add it up, southerners love good country cooking. There are several farmers markets and farms in the South where patrons can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade pastries and freshly preserved jams or jellies.

Beans And Berries in N.C. is a CSA farm that offers tours and seasonal events for the local residents in the area, as well as tourists who come for a visit. At this farm you will find everything from blueberries to persimmons, corn and squash. Beans And Berries also offers pick your own baskets and ideas for freezing and preserving your fruits. Matthews Farmers Market, also in N.C. is a farmers market which features just about everything there is to be found. Not only do they have fresh produce, eggs, jams and jellies, but you can also find original pottery items created by local artists. The local farmers bring chickens to the market to be sold to the public. You'll also find a variety of Middle Eastern dips, breads and spreads being sold at the market. At the Charleston Farmers Market in Charleston, S.C. you'll find pony rides and jumping castles to keep the children entertained while you complete your Saturday morning shopping. This farmers market runs April through December and features fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, jams, and souvenirs for the tourists who flock to this very scenic area.

The Peachtree Orchards in York, S.C. is known in this area as the perfect spot to pick your own fresh, delicious, juicy peaches. they also have apples and other fresh fruits and vegetables, depending on what's in season. They also make some of the freshest, sweetest jams and jellies in this area. The people who own this farm are very nice and welcome newcomers to their farm with open arms. They also freely hand out samples on a daily basis. Gardner Farms in Georgia, is one of the best fruit farms in the south. They offer many varieties of fresh fruit for the picking. Peaches, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are just a few of the choices you'll be faced with. Prices are reasonable at just $6.00 per 5 quarts or a basket. You'll need to bring your own containers at this farm or else buy your own once you get there.

Ridge Island Groves, in Florida, is a staple in this area. A visit to Haines City, Florida just isn't complete without a visit to this farm. Locals and visitors are invited to pick your own oranges, grapefruits or tangerines. You'll need to bring your own containers and always remember to call ahead and make sure the fruit you're wanting is in season. This farm is a popular spot for school field trips and family outings.
The Winter Park Farmers Market, Also in Florida, is located just North of Orlando. The market is open on Saturday mornings and is often filled to capacity with the local residents and visitors craving fresh fruits or just looking for that perfect souvenir. This market is an indoor outdoor adventure that fills this area with an assortment of sights, sounds and smells. For more information on these and other local farmers markets in the area visitwww.ncfarmfresh.com