written by Staff Report
There's nothing like the weather—or the fresh, seasonal produce—of spring and summer. Whether you're more excited about those first glorious rays of sunshine or the fact that strawberries are finally back in season, it's the perfect time to venture outside. Trips to your local markets during this season is not just a way to enjoy the outdoors, but also an opportunity to support local agriculture and savor farm-to-table freshness. Saratoga County is coming to life again, and its farmers' markets are waiting for you.
Farmers' markets are a lifeline for modern sustainable agriculture, connecting families to high-quality, fresh food while supporting local farmers and producers. These markets are a deeply rooted tradition in the United States, dating back to 1634 when the nation's earliest farmers' market was established in Boston, Massachusetts. Today, the USDA's online directory lists more than 10,027 markets nationwide, reflecting their continued growth and importance to our communities.
While the quality food is certainly the main draw, the relationships forged between farmers and their customers are what keep these markets alive and thriving. Shopping at a farmers' market isn't just about buying fresh produce; it's about connecting with the people who grow your food, supporting the local economy, and fostering a sense of community. In Saratoga County, our local markets and dedicated farmers are a testament to this spirit. Discover 12 of our local farmers' markets and go meet the passionate farmers who make them special.
Ballston Spa Farmers’ Market
Season: June through October
Hours: Thursdays 4 pm to 7 pm & Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm
Location: Wiswall Park, Front Street, Ballston Spa, NY
Details: Operating since 2003, this market brings together local producers and consumers, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items. It supports small family farms and local artisans while enhancing the vibrant downtown area of Ballston Spa.
Clifton Park Farmers’ Market
Season: June through October
Hours: Mondays 2 pm to 5 pm
Location: Shenendehowa United Methodist Church
Details: This market features a variety of local produce, baked goods, and crafts, providing a community space for residents to connect and support local agriculture.
Gansevoort Farmers’ Market
Season: June through October
Hours: Tuesdays 3 pm to 6 pm
Location: Gansevoort, NY, Northumberland, NY
Details: Known for its friendly atmosphere, this market offers fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as other farm products directly from local farmers.
Glens Falls Farmers’ Market
Season: May through October
Hours: Saturdays 8 am to 12 pm
Location: South Street Community Pavilion
Details: One of the largest markets in the area, it features a wide array of products including fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and artisan crafts. It's a staple in the community, providing access to high-quality, locally sourced food.
Greenfield Farmers’ Market
Season: June through September
Hours: Thursdays 4 pm to 7 pm
Location: 428 Middle Grove Road, Middle Grove, NY
Details: This market offers a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with homemade goods and crafts from local vendors.
Halfmoon Farmers’ Market
Season: Year Round
Hours: Wednesdays 3 pm to 6 pm
Location: Harris Road, Abele Memorial Park
Details: Open year-round, this market ensures continuous access to fresh produce and local products, adapting to seasonal changes with different offerings throughout the year.
Heart of the Hudson Valley Farmers’ Market
Season: June through October
Hours: Saturdays 9 am to 2 pm
Location: 1801-1805 Route 9W, Cluett Schantz Park, Milton, NY
Details: This market is dedicated to promoting local agriculture and features a variety of local produce, crafts, and live entertainment.
Rexford Landing Farmers’ Market
Season: May through September
Hours: Thursdays 3 pm to 7 pm
Location: 675 Grooms Rd, Clifton Park, NY
Details: Situated in a convenient location, this market offers a wide range of local produce and products, fostering a strong community spirit.
Saratoga Farmers’ Market
Season: May through October
Hours: Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm & Wednesdays 3 pm to 6 pm
Location: High Rock Park
Details: A well-known market that supports a large number of vendors offering fresh produce, meats, dairy products, baked goods, and more. It's a key destination for both locals and visitors.
Spa City Farmers’ Market
Season: Year Round
Hours: Sundays 10 am to 2 pm
Location: Saratoga Spa State Park
Details: Open year-round, this market provides continuous access to fresh, local products and features a variety of vendors, live music, and community events.
Stillwater Farmers’ Market
Season: May through October
Hours: Tuesdays 3 pm to 6 pm
Location: 662 Hudson Ave, Stillwater Public Library
Details: A community-focused market offering fresh, locally grown produce and handmade goods, supporting local farmers and artisans.
Waterford Harbor Farmers Market
Season: June through October
Hours: Sundays 9 am to 1 pm
Location: 1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford, NY
Details: This market offers a scenic location along the harbor and features a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts, enhancing the community's access to fresh, local food.
So, as you embark on your market adventures, remember: it's not just about what you take home in your reusable bags—it's about the connections you cultivate, the stories you share, and the vibrant tapestry of local life that flourishes with every purchase. In Saratoga County, the farmers' markets aren't just a destination; they're a celebration of the season, a tribute to tradition, and a testament to the enduring bond between land, farmer, and community.