Greater Gainesville boasts an impressive number of small farms and farmers markets. The temperate weather here makes it perfect for growing tasty crops, and there is no shortage of dedicated family farms and vendors hustling their way to provide for the locals. This unique combination guarantees that the freshest produce and finest meats can be enjoyed year-round.
The agricultural heritage runs deep in GG. Locally owned farms and ranches are scattered across the picturesque landscape. Among the crops cultivated here, watermelon stands out as a favorite, cherished by both residents and visitors. Newberry’s Watermelon Festival, a beloved annual tradition, further exemplifies the community’s admiration for this juicy fruit.
Greater Gainesville is also known for its flourishing citrus and blueberry production, with the latter being recognized by the USDA as one of the area’s principal crops. In addition to produce, the countryside is dotted with ranches, where farmhands tend to their cattle, goats and chickens, ensuring a constant supply of fresh meats, cheeses and eggs.
For families seeking local honey and other unique sundries, the region is home to apiaries and artisans that produce novel goods like micro greens and goat milk. The abundance of agricultural treasures available is endless, and almost all can be found at any of the locales on the long list of Greater Gainesville farms and markets.
“My grandfather used to say that once in your life you need a doctor, a lawyer, a policeman and a preacher but every day, three times a day, you need a farmer.” -Brenda Schoepp, Farmer
FARMERS MARKETS
The best ingredients yield the best results –– and there is nowhere better to find them than at Greater Gainesville’s farmers markets.
Alachua County Farmers Market
What: Rain or shine, the Alachua County Farmers Marker offers fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, eggs, ornamental plants and local honey. Since this farmers market is “grower’s only”, vendors are not allowed to purchase produce from other farms or wholesalers and resell it. All agricultural, meat and dairy products available are produced, grown, raised and made in Florida.
When: Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Where: Intersection of US 441 and 34th Street
Info: [email protected]
Haile Farmers Market
What: Haile Farmers Market is owned and run by local farmers and has been fostering connections between farmers and families since 1998. All the vendors at the Haile Farmers Market are farmers themselves, guaranteeing that the produce available for purchase is locally cultivated by the very individuals who are selling it. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic, tree-lined streets of Haile Village Center, while they discover an extensive selection of grocery items, prepared foods and meticulously handcrafted gifts.
When: Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Where: 5213 SW 91st Terrace
Info: [email protected]
High Springs Farmers Market
What: The High Springs Farmers Market’s primary objective is to nourish the community by providing access to fresh, locally sourced vegetables and fruits. Additionally, they promote the importance of supporting local artisans and craftsmen through their wide range of items, including farm-fresh produce, unique handmade wares and delectable meals from diverse food vendors.
When: Fridays, 3:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 23517 NW 185th Road in downtown High Springs
Info: [email protected]
GNV Market at Heartwood
What: As the cooler weather descends and fall arrives, Greater Gainesville welcomes the brand-new GNV Market at Heartwood. Beginning October 1, 2023, shoppers can browse locally sourced produce, fresh-cut flowers and freshly prepared foods, all while being serenaded by live music. GNV Market is bringing together farmers, vendors, artists and music enthusiasts to celebrate the abundance of GG and create a vibrant marketplace that nourishes both body and soul.
When: Thursdays, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. starting October 2023
Where: 619 South Main Street
Info: [email protected]
Grove Street Farmers Market
What: The market offers a variety of products including farm-fresh eggs, organic produce, free-range beef and chicken, honey, dairy products such as cow and goat milk and cheeses, organic coffee, and carefully handcrafted artisanal foods and goods.
When: Mondays, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 1001 NW 4th Street
Info: [email protected]
Newberry Farmers Market
What: This classic Farmer’s Market offers fresh, local produce, beef, seafood, breads, flowers, plants, soaps and more. Located in Historic Downtown Newberry, and home to friendly vendors and volunteers, this market is an excellent place to find amazing jams and jellies, fresh regional honey and locally canned goods.
When: Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Corner of Newberry Road and 254th Street
Info: [email protected]
Waldo’s Farmers and Flea Market
What: Waldo Farmer’s & Flea Market proudly holds the title of the “Old Fashioned Flea Market,” embodying the essence of a traditional marketplace for over four decades. As the largest farmers market in GG, customers can easily find farm-fresh produce, affordable tools, antique treasures, pet necessities or even the pets themselves.
When: Saturdays and Sundays
Where: 17805 US Highway 301
Info: [email protected]
U-PICK
As winter turns to spring, the fields, bushes and brambles become laden with color as the hard-earned buds start to bloom. Here are the best places to be in Greater Gainesville when that happens:
Amber Brooke Farms
What: Amber Brooke Farms knows hand-picking your own berries and flowers straight from the fields is truly incomparable. On weekends, the farm offers delicious lunch accompanied by freshly baked goods, slushes, local craft beers and wine. Depending on the season, enjoy juicy blueberries, strawberries and peaches, and vibrant sunflowers and zinnias.
When: Fall, winter, spring
Where: 3250 NE 140th Avenue
Info: [email protected]
Brown’s farm
What: In the serene town of Orange Heights, Florida, the roots of Brown’s Farm run deep. The farm began back in 1916 with pecan groves, laying the foundation for what would become a cherished generational family farm. Now, more than 100 years and 500 acres later, Brown’s Farm offers more than a dozen fruits and veggies, including U-Pick strawberries.
When: mid-March to mid-April
Where: 18120 NE State Road 26
Info: [email protected]
Crossroads Farm & Apiary
What: Crossroads Farm & Apiary, formerly Roger’s Farm, is dedicated to crafting a place where the community can come together to enjoy agriculture. The farm hopes to honor the foundation laid by Roger’s Farm and further develop it into a place where lasting memories are created. Their U-Pick strawberry season is only part of that hope.
When: January to mid-April
Where: 3831 NW 156th Avenue
Info: [email protected]
Wet Hammock Farm
What: Drawing upon the expertise and wisdom acquired through a lifelong commitment to agriculture, Wet Hammock Farm decided to establish a U-Pick farm. Presently, the farm proudly cultivates blackberries, blueberries and peaches, as well as sunflowers, zinnias and marigolds. They aim to foster a greater appreciation for small farmers, promote food security and encourage eating nourishing, unprocessed food.
When: April to June
Where: 4500 E Highway 318
Info: [email protected]
