Selections of fresh agricultural products under sunny skies. Cool summer breezes as you peruse a selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables. The people who grew the food right there before you, happy to answer any questions you may have. And a few extra surprises to discover, like a local musician performing nearby or the local library setting up a children’s craft.
These are just some of the ways farmers’ markets work to make getting your food an experience, not just an errand.
We previously discussed how CT Grown farmers’ markets offer a terrific opportunity to find new products, learn from local farmers, and find great deals on fresh, nutritious, locally grown food. They’re also a great way to connect with your community. Not only can you meet your local farmers, but also artisans, musicians, and representatives from nonprofit organizations.
Farmers’ markets are often held in venues that open the door to further exploration, such as beautiful parks or downtown areas that let you visit Main Street businesses. Purchases at a farmers’ market help keep your money close by, which strengthens the local economy overall.
Discover Connecticut farmers’ markets
Each farmers’ market has its own unique appeal, but this brief guide offers an overview of some of this year’s farmers’ markets in Connecticut and how they can be a destination for you and your family:
CitySeed Farmers Markets: CitySeed hosts farmers’ markets at locations throughout New Haven. You can explore the 123 acres of Edgewood Park while visiting the market there, or visit the heart of the city while stopping at the Wooster Square or Dixwell-Q House markets. Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m., through Oct. 25th at Dixwell-Q House; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Dec. 16th at Wooster Square; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Nov. 19th at Edgewood Park.
Danbury Farmers’ Market: This market holds regular nutrition workshops to ensure that you’re getting the healthiest meals out of the items you buy from local farmers, and visitors get two hours of complimentary parking at a nearby parking garage. The Danbury Farmers’ Market also has a ton of fun activities for families, including a veggie treasure hunt and a Family Fun Zone with crafts, games, and balloon twisting. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Oct. 28th.
Ellington Farmers’ Market: Each weekly market includes a different theme with special activities and demonstrations. Some upcoming events include a blueberry festival on July 15th, a “Zucchini 500” drag race on July 22nd, and an edible animal contest on Aug. 19th. Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., through Oct. 28th.
Litchfield Hills Farm-Fresh Market: This market regularly invites featured guests to share their talents and expertise with visitors. These guests have included chefs, musicians, artists, and nonprofit leaders. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Oct. 21st.
Monroe Farmers Market: Special events take place each month at this market, including a pickle festival on July 14th and a potato festival on Sept. 22nd. It also hosts a Hometown Table welcoming representatives from local nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations, as well as Market Minis programs for children that include scavenger hunts, planting projects, and the “Two-Bite Challenge” encouraging kids to try new fruits and vegetables. Fridays, 3-6 p.m., through Oct. 20th.
Niantic Farmers Market: In addition to a set of regular vendors, the Niantic Farmers Market welcomes a vibrant set of rotating guest vendors who bring new variety to the event every week. Each market also includes a featured food truck. Thursdays, 3-6 p.m., through Oct. 12th.
Old State House Farmers Market: The market at this historic site continues a tradition first established in 1643, when the General Court of Connecticut established a weekly market in Hartford. The market includes a free outdoor concert and the opportunity to visit the nearby Old State House, which features restored House and Senate chambers as well as a unique Museum of Curiosities. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Oct. 13th.
Reservoir Community Farm Farmers Market: This urban farm in Bridgeport grows produce for the community and hosts a community garden network. The farmers’ market coincides with open volunteer hours and special events, including a garlic harvest on July 8th and urban gardening workshops on July 29th. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Oct. 28th.
Storrs Farmers Market: The first market of the month is celebrated with a special occasion, including a major market celebration in September. There is also a special Halloween-themed market at the end of October. Saturdays, 3-5 p.m., through Nov. 19th.
Walnut Beach Farmers Market: Connecticut’s only farmers’ market on the beach! Enjoy the beautiful seascape from the Walnut Beach Pavilion while perusing CT Grown items and listening to live music. Thursdays, 4-7 p.m., through Sept. 21st.
For more farmers’ markets, visit the CT Grown calendar or this site, which includes all authorized redemption locations for eligible WIC and Senior participants in the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.