We’re lucky to live in an area where fresh citrus, herbs and veggies are available year round. For those of us who commit to sustainability, healthy eating and supporting local businesses, going to the farmers’ market is a weekly affair we look forward to.
Although COVID-19 might be keeping us from strolling about and socializing at our favorite markets, farmers and local chefs are finding ways to salvage the season and keep us stocked with fresh, local goods. Several have set up shop online, so we can order our favorite goods with quick pick-up or delivery, while others have maintained their physical markets with enhanced safety measures. Here are the markets that are still operating and fully stocked with your favorite fresh essentials.
COLLIER
Third Street South Farmers’ Market: The market has closed until further notice, but locals are encouraged to buy directly from the vendors. Product details and contact information for each vendor can be found in the resource guide.
Vanderbilt Farmers’ Market: The market is still operating every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., with essential vendors only. “Tent-distancing” has been implemented to ensure a safe distance between booths and the market has requested that the first hour be open to seniors only. Many vendors are making their products available for pre-order, so you can order upon arrival and pick-up when you leave. Others are offering call-ahead with delivery to your home.
Pine Ridge Road Farmers’ Market: Also known as Naples Marketplace, the Pine Ridge Road Farmers’ Market is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with food vendors only. Produce, vegetables, breads and pastries will be available, and social distancing is encouraged.
Immokalee State Farmers’ Market: Despite being farther inland, the Immokalee Farmers’ Market is open daily and offers an abundance of fresh produce for a fraction of the big-box store prices. Booths are spaced apart so shoppers can maintain a safe distance from each other as they peruse products.
LEE
Shangri-La Springs Produce Market: Although the property is closed, Shangri-La has launched an in-and-out market every Thursday with produce from their on-site organic garden. The market is hosted at the Circle C Farm parking lot across the street, and the number of shoppers allowed inside at a given time is limited to ensure safety. Customers also have the option to drive up and purchase a grab-and-go bag filled with a mixture of vegetables and leafy greens.
Farmers’ Market & Craft Show at University Village Shops: The market is open every Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering fresh fruits and vegetables in a safe and speedy grab-and-go format.
GreenMarket: Alliance for the Arts has paused its weekly GreenMarket, only to move it (and their annual All-Florida exhibition) online. Shoppers can purchase herbs, cheeses and produce on the website, then head to the campus’ drive-thru on Wednesdays to have the order placed in their car.
Southern Fresh Farms: The farm remains open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a solid selection of vegetables, fruit, eggs, butter, seafood and other locally sourced essentials. Shoppers can also purchase to-go meals that include an entree and sides. Additional details are available on the farm’s Facebook page.
CHARLOTTE
Southwest Florida Produce: The family-owned farm and co-op unites with other local farms to make fresh produce and other organic goods available all over Southwest Florida. For COVID-19, shoppers can visit the farm’s website to order a produce box for pick-up at a designated location or delivery straight to their home. There is a $5 flat rate delivery fee for purchases under $50. An order over $50 is delivered free.
All participating locations for the Local Roots Farmers’ Markets brand, including: Promenade at Bonita Bay Farmers’ Market; Coconut Point Farmers’ Market; Lakes Park Farmers’ Market; River District Farmers’ Market; Fenway South Farmers’ Market; Boca Grande Farm & Fish Market; Sanibel Island Farmers’ Market; Sanibel Outlets Farmers’ Market; and Captiva Island Farmers’ Market have made produce, breads, juices and other essential goods from over 25 local vendors available online. Orders can be picked up at a designated location or delivered to your home with a minimum purchase of $50.
