Think urban town centers don’t mix with farm fresh produce? Think again! The Raleigh Downtown Farmers’ Market strives to bring delicious produce and fun products to those living and working in the heart of North Carolina’s capitol city. Located at City Plaza on Fayetteville Street, the Downtown Farmers’ Market runs on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., from May 7th all the way until November 5th.
After parking, visitors walk to the City Plaza surrounded by some of Raleigh’s tallest office buildings, including the BB&T Building, Duke Energy Plaza, and One Bank of America Plaza. Yet, upon entering the white tents of the farmers’ market, the sounds of the city change to the chatter of sellers and buyers, and the oohs and aahs of trying new treats and flavors.
Vendors at the market are known for their high quality wares and commitment to sustainability. If I want to satisfy my fresh veggie cravings, Cedar Rock Farm and Wild Onion Farms have just what I’m looking for. Both are committed to growing their produce without pesticides or fertilizer, and with tomatoes, zucchini, and peppers all in-season, they promise to provide some delicious salad fixings.
The Downtown Farmers’ Market also has vendors dedicated to satisfying my sweet tooth. GerDan Chocolates creates handmade truffles and caramels, all unique and made in small batches; Lumpy’s Ice Cream is guaranteed to cool you off on a hot, North Carolina day; and Sweet T features cupcakes, cakes, and other baked goods all made from scratch.
There are meats, cheeses, dairy, coffee, peanuts and more, but when I go to a farmers’ market I look for one thing in particular. There is nothing like having fresh cut flowers in a small vase on the kitchen table or in the living room, and so it is flowers I am always after. It is a simple thing, but beautiful flowers always brighten up my home and make me smile. Luckily, the Raleigh Downtown Farmers’ Market has the perfect vendor for me: The Blue Dragonfly Cut Flower Farm. With different varieties blooming throughout the season, this stall always has something new and colorful.
