Frederick County is home to 1300 different farms and over 100,000 acres of productive farmland. Agriculture is the oldest industry in the county and we do it well! Everything from grass-fed meats, cheeses, organic produce, honey, wine and spirits and even dog treats. There are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of fresh, healthy foods from CSA programs and local farmers markets. Not to mention that Frederick County is also a hotbed for quality craft artisans that are featured at said markets.

There are lots of markets in Frederick but here are 5 to start with this spring. Many of these market vendors are local and produce their own products. Some markets include food trucks or live entertainment so you can grab lunch or dinner and enjoy a show while shopping.

1. Field Fresh Farmer’s Market has been in continuous operation since 1991. It’s been held at many locations but the current one is the Frederick Fairgrounds at 797 E. Patrick St. A great location with lots of parking. The market operates Saturdays from 9am-1pm starting April 27th through November 23rd. Field Fresh has over 30 vendors that include fresh produce, exotic meats, artisan cheeses, wind and spirits, baked goods, cut flowers, plants and craft items. Field Fresh Farmer’s Market is an absolute must on a spring Saturday morning.
2. Frederick City Market is located in Frederick’s historic district on Market St. between 3rd and 4th Streets. It’s held every Sunday from 9am-1pm starting May 12 through November 24th. The market was started in 2012 and has a great diversity of vendors that all grow or craft their products locally.
3. The Frederick Farmer’s Market has two locations for convenience. Saturdays from 10am – 1pm is on the Golden Mile at 1215 West Patrick St. starting April 28th. and Thursdays from 3-6pm is in Everedy Square at 113 North East St. starting May 31st. They have some unique vendors like Caprikorn Farms that sells goat cheese and Cultured Leaf Kombucha that sells raw kombucha.
4. Lake Linganore Farmer’s and Artisan’s Market is held at 6718 Coldstream Dr., New Market on Thursdays from 4-7pm starting June 6th through August 22nd. The market has over 20 vendors and live music every week. You can get Maryland crab cakes, pet treats, handmade jewelry, kettle corn and a wide variety of fresh produce and other foods. Your kids can even get their faces painted and have sno cones while you shop!
5. The Middletown Farmer’s Market has close to 30 vendors and is located at 12 S. Church St. in the Christ Reformed Church parking lot. Started in 2005, it’s held every Thursday from 4-7pm starting May 2nd. Along with unique crafts and lots of fresh produce and food products, the market hosts special events throughout the season. Be sure to check their website and calendar often.