compiled by lois szymanski
As the days grow longer and the fields turn green, farmers markets across Carroll County burst back to life. From just-picked strawberries and garden-fresh greens to creamy local cheeses, farm eggs, golden honey, small-batch jams, baked treats, and handcrafted finds, these open-air markets are a weekly celebration of all things homegrown. Before you grab your tote bag and head out, be sure to check your local market’s website or Facebook page for the most up-to-date hours and vendor information.
Carroll County Farmers Market
Spring markets: April 4, May 9; 8 a.m.–2 p.m.; Summer markets: Saturdays, June 20–Sept. 5, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Vendors offer seasonal produce, local eggs, home-baked goods, local honey, gourmet foods, pasture-raised meats, handmade crafts, houseplants and flowers, outdoor plants, jewelry, seasonal decorations and more. Master Gardeners will hold clinics every Saturday to answer gardening questions. Carroll County Agriculture Center, Westminster, CarrollCountyFarmersMarket.com
Downtown Sykesville Farmers Market
Sundays, May 17–Oct. 25, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. The Downtown Sykesville Farmers Market hosts 45 to 60 vendors offering local produce, herbs, olives, meats, baked goods, handcrafted artisan goods and more. The market also includes live musicians, rotating local nonprofit organizations, a Junior Market featuring local young entrepreneurs and free family-friendly activities. Baldwin Drive and Main Street, Sykesville, Facebook.com/SykesvilleFarmersMarket or Instagram.com/SykesvilleFarmersMarket
Downtown Westminster Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, May 16–Nov. 21, 8 a.m.–noon Each Saturday, visitors can enjoy live music while they shop an abundant selection of seasonal produce, fresh fruits, pasture-raised beef, pork and chicken. Additional products include farm-fresh eggs, artisan-baked breads, sweet treats, handcrafted tea blends, locally roasted coffee, and prepared foods. Live demonstrations, hands-on children’s experiences, animal meet-and-greets, and interactive learning opportunities will also be held throughout the season. 27 Railroad Ave., Conway Lot, Westminster, DowntownWestminsterFarmersMarket.com
Hampstead Farmers Market
Saturdays, June 6–Sept. 26, 8:30 a.m.–noon Shop for local produce, meats, live and soft-shell crabs, cheeses, fresh eggs, bread, fresh-cut flowers, bakery items and more at the Hampstead Farmers Market. Craft vendors will offer jewelry, soaps, reclaimed furniture, pottery, hand-sewn items and more. Coppermine Pantherplex, 1400 Panther Drive, Hampstead, HampsteadFarmersMarket.com
Mount Airy Farmers Market
Wednesdays, May 6–Sept. 23, 3–7 p.m. Shop, buy and support local farms and businesses at the Mount Airy Farmers Market. Open rain or shine, the market offers fresh produce, jewelry, baked goods, Mexican food, wood-fired pizza, pierogies, microgreens, salsa, honey, clothing, home décor and more. The market will have ample parking with an all-inclusive playground. Each week also features area nonprofits and a free entertainment option, including live music, animal ambassadors and classes. Watkins Park, 615 Center St., Mount Airy, MountAiryMD.gov
Taneytown Farmers Market
Saturdays, May 9–Nov. 7, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, eggs, flowers, plants, honey, homemade jams and jellies, pickles, salsa, baked goods and crafts. Come early for breakfast, too. Thunderhead Bowl & Grill Parking Lot, 4337 Old Taneytown Road, Taneytown, Facebook.com/TaneytownFarmersMarket
