To Market We Go: 5 Farmers' Markets Around Bradenton and Sarasota

Temperatures are rising, and sand, sun, and beach trips are on everyone's mind. But summer is also the season for farmers’ markets! The Bradenton and Sarasota areas are home to several excellent farmers’ markets where you can stock up on locally grown ingredients for your summer barbecues — and more.

1. Red Barn Flea Market
1707 First St E
Bradenton, FL

The Red Barn Flea Market may be marketed as a flea market, but it includes three separate open-air farmers’ market areas with low prices and delicious produce. You can shop for fruits and veggies and then head indoors to browse the 600+ flea market booths with antiques, home décor, and more. There's also a food court, local artists selling murals, and more.

The market is located minutes from Springs at Palma Sola and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

2. Sarasota Farmers' Market
1487 2nd St
Sarasota, FL

Located near Springs at Bee Ridge, the Sarasota Farmers' Market is held every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. About 80 vendors show up each week, offering Florida-grown produce, seafood, prepared foods, and more. There's a kids' area with fun activities, some flea market style booths, as well as live music! Enjoy a freshly sliced pineapple or sip some coffee as you walk peruse the market.

3. Siesta Key Farmers' Market
5104 Ocean Blvd
Siesta Key Village, FL

The Siesta Key Farmers' Market is held every Sunday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Vendors set up under tends along the village streets, selling fresh produce, artwork, and crafts. You'll even find delicious olive oil, freshly baked bread, and natural soaps for sale. Local bands play live music every week, and vendors and visitors alike are always in an upbeat mood.

4. Bradenton Farmers’ Market
400 Old Main St
Bradenton, FL

The Bradenton Farmers' Market is an open-air market where you can enjoy upbeat music, demonstrations by local chefs, and much more. Along with locally grown, organic produce, you'll find plenty of prepared foods and crafters selling their creations. The market takes place every Saturday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., and dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed!

5. Central Sarasota Farmers' Market
4454 Beneva Rd
Sarasota, FL

This is a relatively new market that opened for the first time in 2014. Vendors offer plenty of regionally grown vegetables, artisanal baked goods, fresh meats, and prepared foods, and there’s typically live entertainment provided from a local band or solo artist. The market is open every Saturday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

What farmers’ markets do you like to visit in the summer? What are some of the best items you've come across at one of these local markets? Feel free to share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!