Spring is in the air and as the weather hits that perfect spot, the farmers market becomes the place to be. Full of fresh produce, artisan products and locally raised meat, there is something for everyone. Tucson has several markets to choose from, located all over the city. Week by week, we will be highlighting what to look for and what is in season.
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona distributes over 63,000 meals a day to several counties across the region. In addition to the amazing and hard work, the Food Bank also runs two weekly farmers markets. Participating vendors offer all Arizona-grown produce, meat, honey and eggs. The markets are open to the public and accept cash, credit, EBT, WIC vouchers and Arizona Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (AZFMNP) coupons.
Santa Cruz River Farmers Market at Mercado San Agustin – Thursday 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Selena’s Salvadorian and Mexican Food is new and a welcome addition to the market. They will be serving traditional Salvadoran pupusas (thick corn tortilla filled with a variety of delicious options, topped with pico de gallo).
Robbs Family Farms is another new vendor who will be bringing an assortment of seasoned pistachios and locally grown beans.
Community Food Bank Farmers Market at the Food Bank – Tuesday 8:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m.
In line with its goal of offering healthy food choices, the Community Food Bank also hosts local growers and small farmers at its Tuesday markets as a part of its Abundant Harvest Cooperative. This market acts more as a farm stand and features primarily produce. All items are grown in Southern Arizona and without pesticides.
This week, look for fresh chard, kale, radishes, green onions, chiltepines, red potatoes and eggs
Food in Root has a simple focus. It has a desire to make it easier for you to get information about the food you buy. This drive has led to nine different markets open throughout the week, around various parts of town. All locations have the same central goal of providing local food that is nourishing, delicious and sustainable.
Plaza Palamino, 2960 N. Swan Road – Saturday 10:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m.
Bakehouse Bread Company is one of the Plaza’s newest vendors. This week, be on the lookout for freshly baked Italian bread. You can also preorder your bread Thursday before 11:00 a.m. and it will be ready for you at the market on Saturday.
Stop by Happy Hippie Kitchen and Wellness’s booth for fresh, healthy, primarily vegan treats. Check out all of the goods, ranging from brownies, to muffins, to donut holes.
University of Arizona Main Campus, Near Old Main and the Student Union – 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m
For all of our students, this market is now accepting Cat Cash.
Don’t want leftover pizza for breakfast? Stop by and get fresh donuts made by Genuine Creamery on your walk to class.
VegFest Tucson is happening on Sunday April 24 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at The Whistle Stop Depot located at 127 West Fifth Street. This festival will be celebrating plant-based, vegan foods. There will be food samples, live entertainment, speakers and cooking demonstrations. Admission is $10.
Asparagus at Heirloom Farmers Market (Credit: Pedro Romano)
Heirloom Farmer’s Market has been committed to bringing good food to our community for over 14 years. It brings together over 80 vendors and 1,500 people weekly to the three markets. Heirloom works to offer locally sourced products including, but not limited to produce, juice, coffee, bread, meat and cheeses.
Rillito Park Farmers Market, 4502 N. 1st Avenue – Sunday from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m
Aravaipa Creekside Growers has its first batch of shiitake mushrooms available. Get to the market early because these are sure to sell out.
Oro Valley, 10901 N. Oracle Road – Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Visit Maya Tea Company for its latest teas. Spring is a perfect time to explore one of the many fruity teas available.
Bike*Swap*Sell will be going on from 7:30-2:00 p.m. at the market including a bike ride and swap meet.
Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Cochise Family Farm recently joined the Heirloom Farmers’ Market. This mostly female run farm will be bringing its most popular item – Purple Passion Asparagus
