Buy Fresh, Buy Local On Atlantas North Side

Buy fresh, buy local has become a popular theme for shoppers on Atlantas north side. Buyers can choose the freshest produce for their families at reasonable prices. These farmers markets support local growers and food businesses by providing venues for them to sell their products. Many vendors are committed to organic and sustainable growing practices. The markets also provide opportunities for communities to gather together and socialize. Most of the markets are held on Saturday mornings, but a few are held on other days of the week. Here are some of the more popular farmers markets in the area.

The Sandy Springs Farmers Market is held on Saturday mornings in April-October. Market hours are from 8:30am until noon. More than 45 vendors offer fresh produce, eggs, dairy products, pasture-raised meat, and baked goods. There is also a wide variety of prepared foods including jams, jellies, salsas, tamales, pastas, and gluten-free products. Artisans offer goods such as handcrafted soaps, aromatherapy items, and jewelry. The market is located at 235 Sandy Springs Circle NW.

The Dunwoody Green Market takes place on Wednesdays from mid-April to mid-November from 8am-12pm. This is a producer only market, meaning that vendors must grow what they sell. Most of the produce is organically grown. Shoppers will find fruits and vegetables, free range eggs, locally produced honey, and meats. The market has recently returned to its original location, the parking lot of Spruill Gallery, at 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road. Access to the parking lot is off Meadow Lane.

The Alpharetta Farmers Market is held on Saturdays from 8:30am-12:30pm in historic downtown Alpharetta. Vendors set up in the parking lot adjacent to City Hall on Main Street (Hwy 9). The market is held from mid-April until early October. Shoppers may purchase a variety of fresh produce, meats, fresh flowers, herbs, honey, baked goods, jellies, salsa, tamales, cheese, coffee, and organic dog biscuits. There are also non-edible products such as handmade soaps and candles.

The Marietta Square Farmers Market is held on the historic downtown square from April-November. This market is unusual in that it is scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays. The market averages 60 vendors on Saturdays and 25 vendors on Sundays. Buyers will find produce, herbs, plants, and flower arrangements. There are vendors selling gluten-free baked goods, Greek yogurt and salad dressings, local honey, jellies, meats, eggs, butter, and cheeses. More unusual items such as goats milk, pastas, boiled peanuts, and organic dog biscuits are also available. Saturday hours are 9am-noon, and Sunday hours are noon-3pm. Free downtown parking is located in two county parking garages at the corner of Lawrence and Waddell Streets.