Farmers markets are a perfect family outing — and a great way to explore suburbia
Planning to explore the Connecticut suburbs? Swing by a local farmers’ market! Not only will you have a chance to snag some amazing seasonal eats, but you’ll also get an insider’s look at what life could be like if you decide to make one of these awesome suburbs your home. . Here are a few of our favorite spots…
#1. Darien Farmers Market
Every Wednesday morning from June through December, the Goodwives Shopping Center parking lot transforms into the always-popular Darien Farmers Market. Here, you’ll find dozens of local vendors selling fresh-cut flowers, seasonal berries, goat’s milk, and more. While there’s lots to try, don’t miss the Wave Hill Breads stand — this micro-bakery is a local institution, serving up amazing artisanal bread. After browsing the market, be sure and swing by Tilley Pond Park — it’s a go-to playground for area families, and a great way to let the kids get in on the action.
#2. Downtown Milford Farmers Market
On Saturday mornings from June to October, Wasson Field in downtown Milford — home to the Downtown Milford Farmers Market — is the place to be. In addition to an amazing selection of fresh fruits and veggies, the Milford market features crafts from local artists and crafters. You’ll find vendors showcasing their handmade jewelry, home goods, wellness items, and more. Plus, most weeks, you can catch live music and local food trucks set up around the market.
#3. Fairfield Farmers Market
Every Sunday morning from June to October, families flock to the Sherman Green lot to pick up fresh produce and prepared foods from the Fairfield Farmers Market. More than 20 local farms and producers come together each week, offering everything from Vic’s Guac Shop’s famous homemade guacamole to pet treats from Molly & Murphy Irish Horse & Dog Biscuits. There’s also live music throughout the season and plenty of space for kids to run and play. Grab a bite, spread out a picnic blanket, and take in the sites and sounds of this popular spot.
#4. Greenwich Farmers Market
In Greenwich, Saturday mornings are all about a trip to the farmers’ market. Located in the 2 Horseneck Lane parking lot from May to November, this bustling market offers a huge selection of local goods. Like the Darien market, the artisanal bread from Wave Hill Breads is always popular, as is the award-winning apple pie from Oronoque Farms and nitrate-free meats from Oui Charcuterie. Select vendors even offer online ordering options — order online, then swing by the market for a quick pickup. To make your farmers’ market outing and town exploration even more fun, add in a stop at the nearby Roger Sherman Baldwin Park or Bruce Park Playground.
#5. New Canaan Farmers Market
A staple for more than 20 years, the New Canaan Farmers Market in the Old Center School parking lot is the place to be every Saturday morning, from May to November (note: this year the location changes week to week — check the website to confirm before heading over). If you plan to arrive during the first hour of the market, you’ll need to pre-register — any time after that, it’s open to all and no registration is required. Once you’re here you’ll get to enjoy live music as you pick up some Connecticut-grown food. With this incredible selection, you’ll find everything you could imagine from organic veggies to farm-raised meats to fresh homemade pesto.
#6. Norwalk/Rowayton Farmers Markets
Norwalk and Rowayton boast not one, not two, but four weekly farmers markets. On Wednesdays from July to November, you can pick up fresh produce from Gazy Brothers Farms in the Norwalk Community Health Center parking lot. Starting in May, you can also head to the farmers market at the Rainbow Plaza — it also runs weekly on Wednesdays. At this location, local residents can sign up for the area community-supported agriculture (CSA) program SA as well as grab farm-fresh produce, eggs, and flowers onsite. Planning a weekend trip to the area? On Saturday mornings from July to October, head to the First Congregational Church. The market fills up quickly and, with one visit, you’ll see why. Participating vendors offer everything from herbs, fruits, and veggies to honey, meats, eggs, and more. Each season, this market ends with a popular harvest festival full of fall fun including games and costume contests. Rounding out the mix is the Friday morning Rowayton Farmers Market. This market, which runs from May to October, was listed as one of the 14 best farmers markets in America by Country Living. Expect more than 30 vendors including small-batch granola maker Kelly’s Four Plus Granola and Dough Girls with their incredible wood-fired pizzas — plus all of your farmers’ market faves like organic fruits, veggies, and baked goods.
#7. Westport Farmers Market
Every Thursday morning from May to November, residents descend on the Westport Farmers Market. Based in a local open-air greenhouse, this market features a diverse array of essentials including seafood, kombucha, bread, and produce from regional suppliers. That, though, is just the beginning. While you’re there, swing by the Get Growing booth for kids’ crafts and activities that promote healthy eating. You can also mix and mingle with local chefs who create a new recipe using seasonal ingredients from the market each week. Watch the cooking demonstration at the market and use this as inspiration for your next farm-to-table meal at home. Get to know the Connecticut suburbs by exploring these farmers’ markets. Schedule a FREE Suburbs Strategy session to learn more.
