Thanks to quarantine, gardens have sprung up in many backyards sprouting fresh veggies and fruit. However, if your green thumb is not quite there yet, don’t fret. There’s plenty of access to locally-grown produce at farmers markets throughout the Columbia Region.
Soda City Market
From homegrown produce to fresh flowers (and a host of other local goodies), Soda City Market is one of the most fun ways to shop for your favorite fruits and vegetables. The open-air market is open each Saturday, rain or shine, the Main Street mainstay also offers a host of locally made products and food for purchase. The hours are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and safety measures are in place including wearing masks, spaced out vendors and hand sanitizer on every block.
South Carolina State Farmers Market
We’re in the middle of the peak season for locally grown produce – which runs from April through early October – at the S.C. State Farmers Market. Located in West Columbia, seasonal fruits and veggies are available from statewide farms. The market also offers an array of specialty products and artisan items.
Cayce Farmer’s Market
Head over to Cayce for everything from squash, eggplant and potatoes to spring onions, zucchini and pickling cucumbers. The Cayce Farmer’s Market is open seven days a week and their produce boxes are a popular buy. Locally owned for more than 30 years, the market carries a full line of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as specialty items like jams and jellies, salad dressings, barbeque sauces and seasonings. Oh … did I mentioned BOLIED PENUTS made in house every day? Don’t forget to peruse the tropical plants, hanging baskets, palm trees, shrubs … I could go on.
The Market at Icehouse – Lexington
Located at the Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington, The Market at Icehouse is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon through September. The community-friendly atmosphere supports local production and educates citizens on the benefits of eating local, fresh produce and supporting local artists. Stop by for regular vendors and there’s often a yummy in-season surprise like a heap of fresh tomatoes and other produce. Or, opt for the beautiful flowers, candles, baked goods and more.
Heritage Fields Farm
Local farmer David Derek opened Heritage Fields Farm to provide fresh local produce at a reasonable price to the community. The vegetable building is open Monday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. during the summer and offers fresh produce picked daily from their farm. They also offer seasonal crafts throughout the year and blacksmith work with unique items like coat hangers, oyster shuckers and other custom metal work. Can’t stop by? Online shopping is also available.
When visiting markets in Columbia SC please follow local health and safety protocols. For more information, please visit our Covid-19 Response page.