Naples Florida Farmers' Markets

Naples has always been a town where people love to cook and eat and entertain — and these days, a farmers' market is open nearby literally every day of the week.

It wasn't too long ago — maybe ten years — that the only place to buy high quality fruits and vegetables was Publix. Things have changed! Now, if you find yourself planning a meal or an event, fresh and local are the keys, and we are blessed in Southwest Florida to have an abundance of options. Within fifteen minutes of North Naples, there are at least 20 farmers' markets per week from October through April — and recently, driven by a growing population and more summer visitors, many of the markets are open year round. Here are two of our favorites.

Third Street South Farmers' Market

The largest of them all is the Third Street Farmers' Market, on Third Street South, between Broad Street and 13th Avenue South. The market is a very important component of the Third Street South District's identity. Open Saturday mornings from 7:30 to 11:30, it is one of the "must dos" of Naples.

It offers a very large selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, breads, coffee, cheeses, craft items, pastries, meats, eggs — we could go on and on. With strong support from local merchants and residents, Third Street South ranks as the #1 market with our circle of friends. Like Naples itself, the market swells in size from November through April, but it is open all year round.

Fresh and local are the keys to fruits and vegetables — and we are blessed in Southwest Florida to have an abundance of options.

The Shoppes at Vanderbilt Farmers' Market

But today, we decided to explore a bit and hit one of the smaller markets. But not that small, to be honest… The Vanderbilt Farmers' Market had at least 20 vendors open for business. We arrived and took our photos early, before it got busy, but there were at least 15 vegetable, fruit and other food vendor stalls, 10+ crafts and clothing sellers, and lots of interesting people to talk to.

One very nice merchant had some fresh baked, really great breakfast cupcakes and successfully tempted us.

But in spite of my real purpose being to pick up some tomatoes, garlic and herbs for a salad for a dinner party — mission accomplished — the family that was selling freshly cut, ice cold watermelon really made my day.

We will be taking a regular look at different markets around town and talking to the folks who work in them to bring us good, fresh food — and letting you know a bit about them as well. So check back with us.

I almost forgot one of the best reasons to go to our local farmers' markets — JUICE INGREDIENTS! Prices are low and quality is high, so if you happen to enjoy fresh juices, you can't find a better place to source your ingredients. Have a great Saturday and weekend. Back to you soon.