Nothing beats a trip to a great community farmers’ market — the delectable smells of local food being prepared, the plentiful fresh fruits and vegetables on display, and the unique handmade goods for sale — from jewelry to soaps and everything in between.
Farmers’ markets allow visitors to experience the local culture of a community in a way that a trip to the grocery store simply can’t rival.
Whether you’re a proud resident of York, Maine, or visiting the area on vacation, make sure to include a trip to a local farmers’ market if you need some fresh produce or simply feel like perusing the wares of local artisans.
Even if you don’t find anything you need, you’re sure to enjoy taking in all of the sights and scents and getting to know other members of the greater York community.
Best Places to Find Fresh Produce and Handmade Goods in York, Maine
Are you interested in visiting one of the many farmers’ markets currently operating in and around York? You’re in luck, as the state of Maine is home to a huge variety of farmers’ markets that each offer their own distinct local flair. Let’s take a look at five of the best farmers’ markets you can find in York and the surrounding area.
- The Gateway York Farmers’ Market
- North Berwick Farmers’ Market
- Kittery Community Market
- Portsmouth Farmers’ Market
- Berwick Winter Farmers’ Market
The Gateway York Farmers’ Market
The Gateway York Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for York tourists and residents alike. This farmers’ market — located in the heart of the village — takes place throughout the summer months, from May 21 to November 12 each year, and takes advantage of all the fresh summer produce that Maine has to offer.
If you’re visiting York for a summer vacation, you’ve found the perfect place to spend your Saturday morning! The quality of fruits, vegetables, prepared foods, and handmade goods sold at the Gateway York Farmers Market simply can’t be beaten. Some local favorites include juicy Maine strawberries, fresh-picked tomatoes, and crisp New England apples.
North Berwick Farmers’ Market
Located northeast of York and accessible by Maine State Route 4, the North Berwick Farmers’ Market is another popular destination for fresh produce and locally made goods during the summer months.
Though this market seems to be a bit of a distance from York, it’s a quick 25 minute drive and the town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Not to mention the quality of produce is some of the best in the area and well worth the pilgrimage!
The mission of North Berwick Farmers’ Market is to support local farmers, artists, and artisans by providing them with a fun and effective way to connect with the community and sell their goods at a fair price. This market takes place on Thursday afternoons from early June to late September each year.
Kittery Community Market
Kittery is a thriving town located due south of York and easily accessible along I-95, just a 10-minute drive from Stage Neck Inn. Unlike many other farmers’ markets in New England, the Kittery Community Market is open each Sunday from early June into December, allowing members of the community to access autumn produce, as well as the best summer fruits and vegetables available.
Portsmouth Farmers’ Market
Located a short 15-minute drive from Stage Neck Inn, consider checking out the Portsmouth Farmers’ Market south of Kittery and just across the New Hampshire border. This popular farmers’ market is open all summer from early May to early November and acts as a community hub for art, music, handmade goods, and fresh food.
The Portsmouth Farmers’ Market is run by Seacoast Eat Local, a collective that aims to make healthy and fresh produce accessible to everyone. To achieve this mission, they host successful farmers’ markets in multiple cities along the East Coast, including Dover, Exeter, and Durham.
Berwick Winter Farmers’ Market
Some of the best produce grows in the summer, but what about winter veggies and fruits? The Berwick Winter Farmers’ Market aims to break the mold by making even winter crops accessible in a farmers’ market setting.
Located West of York near the Maine-New Hampshire line, the Berwick Winter Farmers’ Market is certainly worth the trip if you’d like to find the freshest winter produce available in New England.
Additionally, this farmers’ market offers all of the same entertainment and fun of summer markets with live music, fresh baked goods, and plenty of community connection.
Stage Neck Inn is an iconic destination where families and friends share delightful experiences that evolve into lifetime memories. Offering spacious accommodations with modern amenities and classic décor, breathtaking ocean and harbor views and the ocean’s relaxing sounds make for the perfect stay at our oceanfront resort in York Harbor, ME. Book your stay online now.