From juicy peaches during the summer to hearty sweet potatoes in the fall, eating with the seasons is as simple as stopping by one of the Charleston area’s many farmers markets and farm stands. Discover our top picks for some of the freshest-tasting produce available.
Charleston Farmers Market
If it’s a summer Saturday in Charleston, you can bet that the Charleston Farmers Market will be in full swing. Founded in 1989 in cooperation with the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service, the Charleston Farmers Market has garnered numerous accolades, including from Travel + Leisure, for its commitment to supporting Lowcountry farmers and offering a bounty of sustainably-grown produce for purchase.
During your visit, you can select fresh fruits and vegetables from B&E Farms of Yemassee and savor the sweetness of all-natural honey from Tiverton Farms of Moncks Corner. In addition to seasonal produce, market patrons can also explore juried arts and crafts from area artisans, including sweetgrass baskets, handmade soaps and pottery.
“Whether you’re a resident or visitor, the Charleston Farmers Market is a true celebration of Lowcountry living, beautifully displaying authentic Southern charm and hospitality that keeps locals coming back and visitors longing to return,” says Harrison Chapman, farmers market manager. “The vibrant atmosphere of farmers markets creates a sense of place and belonging, offering a gathering space for neighbors to connect and celebrate the abundance of our local food culture.”
When: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., April through the end of November
Where: Marion Square, 329 Meeting St., Charleston
More Info: charlestonfarmersmarket.com
Mount Pleasant Farmers Market
Select the freshest produce from South Carolina agriculturists at the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market. Founded in 1998, the weekly market is a traditional-style market, open only to farmers and food vendors. Visitors will find farm-fresh produce, meats, baked goods, specialty foods and prepared food vendors.
From Walterboro, growers at Kindlewood Farms offer more than 40 varieties of vegetables raised from seed in the farm’s 40-by-30-foot greenhouse. When you seek the sweetest peaches, you’ll want them from the Shuler Peach Co. of Holly Hill. Finally, find Swiss chard, striped beets, collards, yellow summer squash, carrots, scallions and more from Freeman Produce of Johns Island.
“The success of our market relies heavily on the professionalism of our farmers and vendors who are dedicated to bringing a wholesome, healthy, affordable and fun market experience for our patrons,” says Tracy Richter, who manages the market on behalf of the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department.
When: Tuesdays, 3:30-7 p.m., April through September
Where: 645 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant
More Info: experiencemountpleasant.com/events/farmers-market
North Charleston Farmers Market
With its new home at the Park Circle Pavilion, the North Charleston Farmers Market delivers fresh, locally-grown South Carolina–Certified produce, specialty foods and artisans to market visitors. Guests will find food trucks, children’s activities and live musical entertainment each week.
Pick up organically-grown fruits and vegetables from Joseph Fields Farm in Johns Island for your Thursday night supper. Add a boost of microgreens — broccoli, kale, radish and more — to your diet directly from Mav’s Microgreens. Brigmon Farms of Cottageville yields a bevy of farm-fresh eggs you can incorporate into your favorite breakfast or brunch dishes.
“The North Charleston Farmers Market is a service to the community,” says Tiara Gillespie, arts outreach coordinator for the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department. “We are in the center of a food desert. Giving the community access to fresh produce and specialty food items is our goal. We also support the arts by featuring local musicians and arts and crafts vendors.”
When: Thursdays, 3-7 p.m., May 2 through Oct. 24
Where: Park Circle Pavilion, 4800 Park Circle, North Charleston
More Info: facebook.com/NoChasFarmersMarket
Sunday Brunch Farmers Market
Although the Sunday Brunch Farmers Market is open throughout the year, July and August are prime months for shopping at the market for fresh seasonal produce, locally-baked bread, kombucha and more. You’ll find this charming market tucked away behind the Charleston Pour House on Maybank Highway.
Dragonfly Creek of Walterboro brings specialty fruits and vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs and chicken eggs to market visitors. The farm employs regenerative and restorative farming and land management practices to cultivate its produce. Connect with Tidewater Farm, which delivers day-of-market harvests of organic microgreens. If you’re looking for some mushrooms to add to your frittata or stir fry, look for Super Mushroom Bros. The company provides the freshest mushrooms and grow-your-own mushroom kits.
“Part of what we think makes this market unique is the vibrant, tight-knit community that supports us. As our venue, the Charleston Pour House is part of what sets us apart, and folks often comment on how much they love the fun, friendly vibe,” says Adam Chandler, who co-manages the market with Meg Moore. “We have a mix of farmers, artisans and craft vendors—about 50 total—as well as several food trucks.”
When: Sundays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., year round
Where: 1977 Maybank Highway, Charleston
More Info: sundaybrunchfarmersmarket.com
By Michael Vyskocil
