What is already a local favorite has now been named the nation’s best Farmers Market by USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards. Soda City Market is known for its festive atmosphere, diverse vendors and a variety of products for purchase including locally sourced produce, crafts, flowers and more. The open-air, producer-only market is open each Saturday, rain or shine, and captures the spirit of Columbia with its vibrant atmosphere.
While Soda City has grown in popularity and recognition, there are other great options in the Columbia region. Here are some of the region’s top spots for farmers market finds.
The South Carolina State Farmers Market located in West Columbia offers seasonal produce, plants and flowers featuring a variety of vendors. The market hosts flower festivals each spring and fall and the peak season for locally grown produce runs through early October. The Market Restaurant is also onsite offering scratch made Southern cuisine.
In the Vista, Farmers Market Xchange offers a large selection of fresh produce, organic products and there’s baked goods, lunch items and coffee, too. From handmade breads to cured meats and cheeses, it the perfect spot to shop or grab-and-go.
Blythewood Farmers Market runs through November. Located at Blythewood’s Doko Meadows Park, the market is a local, producer-only market where each vendor is the original grower, creator, maker or builder of whatever they sell. Stop by to pick up homegrown groceries or participate in educational programs.
Heritage Fields Farm in Irmo is where local farmer David Derek’s goal has always been to provide fresh local produce at a reasonable price to the community. Everything is picked fresh daily from the fields. They also offer seasonal crafts and flower lovers can choose from a selection of 800 Iris varieties to choose from.
Located at Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington, the Market at Icehouse is open through September and features fresh produce, unique gifts, local vendors, food and live music. The community-friendly atmosphere supports local production and supporting local artists.
Cayce Farmers Market is family-run market offering fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and seasonal décor. It is open seven days a week and their produces boxes are a popular buy. Don’t forget to check out their specialty items like jams and jellies, salad dressings, barbeque sauces, seasonings and the Southern favorite boiled peanuts make in house each day.