With access to so many grocery stores and online markets, it's easy to forget that local farmers markets cultivate communities on a far greater scale than food harvested from other regions. The locally grown fruits and vegetables sold at farmers markets provide fresh, affordable and healthy food options that cater to every household budget. Many of the growers also lead seminars or demonstrations that cover everything from health-related education to learning how to cook or prepare a delicious meal. These markets also bring the community together as they support local agriculture and the local businesses that rely on it.

Join our REALTORS® by showing your support for our farming community and visiting one of these five fantastic farmers markets around the RVA.

1. River Street Market – 30 River Street, Petersburg, VA 23803
   Now in its third season, the River Street Market near Petersburg homes for sale is continuing to grow! Their expanded location features new programs and events every Saturday between April and October. Fresh produce from surrounding counties sits alongside handmade jewelry, local honey, fresh meats and more. River Street Market has a new collection of arts, produce and culture each week, providing you with locally sourced goods from your neighborhood artisans and crafters.
   
   
2. Third Thursdays Open Air Marketplace – 205 E. Broadway Ave., Hopewell, VA 23860
   Farmers markets are always fun weekend activities, but if you're planning on purchasing one of the Hopewell homes for sale, you'll be excited to know that the Third Thursdays Open Air Marketplace is nearby! Between May and October, the Hopewell Open Air Marketplace opens up on the third Thursday of the month to celebrate the local produce, food and craft vendors that our community cherishes. A mix between a farmers market, marketplace, and festival, these monthly events are fun for the whole family.
   
   
3. Tricycle Gardens MCV Massey Cancer Center Farm Stand – Corner of College & Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23223
   Another mid-week market near Richmond homes for sale, the VCU Massey Cancer Center Farm Stand operated by Tricycle Gardens brings farm-fresh vegetables and fruits to those who need it most. Produce is provided to those undergoing treatments at the oncology clinic and is available for purchase for all other residents as well. Stop by on Thursdays between March and November to pick up your weekend greens or consider purchasing a piece of fresh fruit to donate to someone in need.
   
   
4. South of the James Market – Forest Hill Park, New Kent Ave. & 42nd St., Richmond, VA 23225
   Located in Forest Hill Park, surrounded by desirable Richmond homes for sale, the South of the James Market is a year-round open air producer market that has plenty of locally grown and handcrafted items for sale. Like other GrowRVA markets, South of the James Market will operate rain or shine unless dangerous weather conditions occur. Visit any Saturday until noon and pay a visit to nearly 100 local vendors.
   
   
5. Chesterfield County Farmers Market – 6701 Mimms Loop, Chesterfield, VA
   The Chesterfield County Farmers Market is once again open for the summer. Head down to the Chesterfield County Government Center Complex, just blocks away from the best Chesterfield homes for sale, and support your community by pledging to spend $10 per week through the Farm Fresh program. By picking up just a few items each week, you'll help local businesses grow, meet the farmers that work hard to supply our community with fresh food and enjoy great tasting produce that's packed with nutrients.

Farmers markets are great resources in every community and we are lucky to have so many around the RVA. For more information about local produce around the city, or to browse Richmond homes for sale that have plenty of space to cultivate your own backyard garden, contact us today!