Haven’t we all been fantasizing about slicing into a ripe, juicy tomato right off the vine? With most area farmers markets launching late this year owing to COVID-19, we had to put those dreams of fresh produce on hold, but it looks like all the markets will be in full swing this month. So set your alarm for Saturday and spark your creativity in the kitchen with just-picked produce, fresh seafood, and pasture-raised meats. Here’s where folks in the Upstate will be heading this summer:
TD Essentials Market Sprouting up from a modest group of a dozen farmers who began selling their wares behind the Liberty Building 18 years ago, downtown Greenville’s farmers market usually packs more than 75 vendors into two blocks of Main Street between Court and Washington streets. Beginning on June 6, to encourage social distancing, the TD Market will present fewer vendors as the TD Essentials Market. Shop for products from organic vegetables, grass-fed beef, and SC-caught seafood. Main St at McBee Ave. June 6–Oct 31; Sat, 8am–noon.
Fountain Inn Farmers Market You’ll find everything from peaches to pickles at the Commerce Park Pavilion in Fountain Inn on Saturdays. The market’s approximately 40 vendors are practicing social distancing and extending their tables down the street. Grab some fresh-baked goodies for breakfast and enjoy live music and special activities for the kids, such as touch-a-truck day, planting seeds to take home, and riding the trackless train. 110 Depot St, Fountain Inn. Thru Sept 12; Sat, 8am–noon.
Greenville State Farmers Market The roots of Greenville’s original farmers market reach back to 1949. Run by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, the state market occupies a 14,400-square-foot building, chock-full of plants and fresh produce. The market’s Autumn Fest, usually held on the last weekend in September, is a Greenville favorite. 1354 Rutherford Rd, Greenville. Year-round; Mon–Sat, 8am–6pm.
Greer Farmers Market Greer City Park hosts this entertaining market, where the cornucopia of local products overflows with the likes of heirloom vegetables, Blue Ridge Creamery’s artisanal cheese, and Wagyu beef raised at Caroland Farms in Landrum. Come to buy and stay to join in fun events such as chef cooking demos, yoga classes, and even a watermelon-eating contest. 301 E Poinsett St, Greer. Thru Sept 19; Sat, 8:30am–noon.
Simpsonville Farmers Market Tucked back off Main Street in Simpsonville City Park, this market may be on the smaller side with 30 vendors, but folks flock here for unique offerings such as Possum Kingdom raw goat milk, artisan-made gouda from Forx Farm, and an assortment of pasture-raised poultry and antibiotic- and hormone-free pork, beef, and lamb from Bethel Trails Farm. The market opened in May, with a new layout that is more spread out to allow for safe shopping. 405 E Curtis St, Simpsonville. Thru Sept 26; Sat, 8am–noon.
Travelers Rest Farmers Market Serving northern Greenville County, the Travelers Rest Farmers Market includes more than 60 farmers, ranchers, and food artisans—not to mention a host of painters, potters, and candle makers. Usually spread over the field at Trailblazer Park, the market is presenting only essential vendors during social distancing. Mark your calendar for July 25th for the Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off, when you can sample scrumptious versions of this summer staple made by local chefs, and cast a vote for your favorite. 225 Trailblazer Dr, Travelers Rest. Thru Sept 26; Sat, 8:30am–noon.
Photography by Paul Mehaffey
