Where do you go in the Raleigh area to buy fresh produce?  Your local farmer's market, of course.  There are many to choose from in Raleigh and the surrounding area. 

The most prominent of all the farmer's markets is the State Farmer's Market located at 1201 Agriculture Street in Raleigh.  It's easily accessible off of the 440 bypass.  Here you will find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to honey.  Gardeners will have a heyday here browsing potted plants, bushes, fresh herbs, and floral bouquets.  Baked goods, fresh meats, cheeses and canned goods are also available for purchase.  The State Farmer's Market has a calendar of events that showcases seasonal fruits and veggies.  Next week on July 23rd from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m they will be celebrating Peach Day.  The fuzzy fruit will be the focus of a dessert contest that is open to the public (click here to see how you can enter your own dish).  There will also be an appearance by the North Carolina Peach Queen. and there will be free peach ice cream samples.   Check their website for hours of operation.

The North Raleigh Farmer's Market  is easily available from the 540 bypass and is located in the Falls River Town Center.  Their hours are Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Wake Forest has it's own Farmer's Market located at 110 South White Street in historic downtown Wake Forest.  There are several different festivals showcasing seasonal fruit, vegetables or herbs as well.  Check their website for updated information.   They are only open on Saturdays. 

The Town of Cary has their own destination for locally grown produce located at 744 East Chatham Street.   Check their website for days and hours of operation. 

The Apex Farmer's Market is located at the Depot in downtown Apex at 220 North Salem Street.  Hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. 

Holly Springs' farmer's market is located in the Downtown Village District at 128 South Main Street.  Their website is pretty extensive and informative.  Check out the calendar for upcoming events and hours of operation.

The Moore Square Farmer's Market is located at the intersection of Blount and Market Streets.  The market is open on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. April through August.

Before you head to any of these venues make sure you have cash on hand.  Most vendors only accept cash.  The State Farmer's Market has an ATM located on the property for your convenience. 

Recipes containing fresh produce:

Herbed Veggie Sandwich

Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Homemade Tortilla Chips with Fresh Salsa

Gazpacho

Blue Cheese Potato Salad

Photo from Microsoft Word clipart