Summertime means peak season for fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, and what better way to get them than at a bustling farmers market? Rutherford County hosts a number of spots for finding delicious wares from the best producers and makers in the area, guaranteeing great purchases and memorable experiences.
Batey Farms
5331 Baker Rd., Murfreesboro. 629-772-3900
A working family farm since 1807, Batey Farms now produces USDA certified pork products, along with a smorgasbord of locally –made goods on open shop days. Find local honey, jams, cheeses, and milk from area producers next to the farm’s own stellar meat cuts including chops, ribs, sausages, and stuffed brats. Check their website and Facebook page weekly for special offerings and open hours.
La Vergne Farmers Market
5093 Murfreesboro Rd., La Vergne. 615-793-3224
Set up along the Bicentennial Trail next to City Hall, La Vergne’s Farmer’s Markets features a delicious stroll through vendor booths, food trucks, and craft makers. Pick up unique items like locally-roasted coffee beans, homemade salsa, handmade soaps, and baked goods. Saturdays 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., May –September.
Lascassas Farmers Market
684 Barlow Ln., Lascassas. 615-893-4142
This producer-only market is a trove of local treasures, from fresh farm flowers to exquisite baked goods to meats. Market creator Nina Hanson gives guests a weekly market preview on their Facebook page, so you can plan your shopping list. Saturdays 8 a.m.- 12 p.m. year-round.
Murfreesboro Saturday Market
16 W. Lytle St., Murfreesboro. 615-895-1887
A local favorite for its setting in the beautiful historic Murfreesboro square, the Murfreesboro Saturday Market showcases more than 50 vendors selling beef, pork, chicken, eggs, preserves, fresh flowers, honey soaps, teas, and other goods. Come for the market and make it a day by sampling surrounding shops and eateries. Saturdays 8 a.m.- 12 p.m., June- October
Tuesdays and Fridays May-November 7 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Rutherford County Farmers Market
315 John Rice Blvd. Murfreesboro. 615-898-7710
Held at Lane Agri-Park, this market is unique for its indoor location (convenient no matter the weather) and diversity of food and floral producers. Find fresh milk, eggs (chicken and duck), baked goods, and plenty of vegetables and seasonal fruits. Local and organic meats are sold here, as are many home-canned items. Make a whole morning of it with a stroll over to the Master Gardener Association’s beautiful teaching gardens or a round of fishing at the TWRA pond on site. Tuesdays and Fridays May-November 7 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Smyrna Depot Farmers Market
Historic Depot District, Front St., Smyrna. 615-984-4038
Hosted by local arts organization Carpe Artista, the Smyrna Depot Farmers Market is a rich space for community-driven creativity. Find fresh local foods, handmade crafts, and some great bands playing as well. Stay after shopping for lunch, coffee or sweets at the Depot District’s anchor restaurants like La Tavola, Carpe Café, Breaking Bread, and Janarty’s Ice Cream. Saturdays 8 a.m.- 12 p.m., May – September
Triple A Farms
8322 Hwy 99, Rockvale. 615-476-8664
Find all the fresh produce, including tomato plants, zucchini, greens and an abundance of mums at this spacious farm stand along Highway 99. Get notifications about popup events, craft fairs, and special produce days on their Facebook page. Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Laura Beth Payne is a writer and homeschooling mama living in Murfreesboro with her husband, two children, and adorable cat. A native of the city, she spends her time exploring local spots and writing about where families can go for their next adventure. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram at Murfreesboro Mama.