Fresh, healthy food is all around us at our local farmers’ markets. October thru May is Florida’s primary growing season, but you can find a market nearby any time of year. Farmers’ markets are ideal for purchasing minimally processed and organic fruits and vegetables. The produce is typically freshly picked, making it more nutritionally dense than grocery store products. Plus, you’ll find music, dogs, crafts, and fun-loving people to interact with as you shop! There are many advantages to shopping at your local farmers’ markets.
Local Farmers’ Market Advantages for Shoppers
- Organic unprocessed produce
- Grass-fed protein
- Fresh herbs
- Seasonal treats (think grapefruit!)
- Seafood (typically caught that day)
- Variety
- Affordability
- Sustainability
Tip: Purchase rooted fresh herbs at the market. Plant them in pots at home so you can snip fresh herbs for meals.
Recommended Shopping List
On your weight loss journey, it’s essential to have high-quality food. Nutrient-rich proteins, fruits, and vegetables are at your local farmers’ market. Remember, it’s best to eat organic. Here are a few items to pick up during your next farmers’ market visit:
- Grass-fed beef
- Organic chicken
- Eggs
- Spinach
- Brussels sprouts
- Herbs
- Berries
- Salmon
- Cucumbers
- Onions
The items above can easily be turned into your next meal using one of our healthy recipes. You’ll get the right combination of protein and sugars when you mix and match these ingredients for your next meal.
St. Pete & Clearwater Farmers’ Markets
St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market
The largest market in the southeast, St. Pete's Saturday Morning Market, opened in 2022—delight in produce grown by small growers and artisan-made products. As a bonus, there's music and plenty of dogs to enjoy along the way.
Locations: Al Lang Stadium parking lot (typically October to May) and Williams Park (typically June to August)
Season: October - August
Hours: Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m
Dunedin Downtown Market
The Dunedin Downtown Market is a local open-air fresh market with 60+ local vendors offering various vegetables and fruits, indoor/outdoor plants, eggs, meats, cheeses, fresh baked goods, ready-made foods, and locally made handicrafts.
Locations: 420 Main Street Dunedin, FL 34698 and Dunedin History Museum (in the parking lot) 349 Main St, Dunedin, FL
Season: Year round
Hours: November - June on Friday & Saturday 9 am - 2 pm; June 2023*: Saturday only 9 am - 2 pm; July - October 2023*: Saturday only 9 am - 1 pm at History Museum
*Please note: The Market may be canceled on certain holiday weekends. Please check the full calendar of events.
Corey Avenue Sunday Market
Corey Avenue Sunday Market in St. Pete Beach is a fun place to pick up healthy ready-made food and fresh veggies. There are over 60 tented stalls to explore. Don't forget to enjoy a quick conversation with your favorite vendor.
Location: 300 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach
Season: October - May
Hours: Sundays, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m
Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market
The Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market is teeming with locally produced honey, sauces, teas, herbs, meats, skin care products, candles, and more. The vendors and products are as eclectic, and the shady, tree-lined streets are lovely to enjoy.
Location: 3000 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport
Season: Year round
Hours: Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., October to April; 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., May to September
Safety Harbor’s Market on Main
You’ll find fresh juices, meat, locally grown products, crafts, and art at the Safety Harbor’s Market on Main. There’s a little something for everyone, and that’s why everyone loves this market.
Location: 401 Main St., Safety Harbor
Season: Year round
Hours: Sundays, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
I hope to see you at one of our local farmers’ markets soon. There are so many fantastic options for eating healthy. If you are interested in improving your health, I invite you to schedule a consultation at my weight loss clinic in St. Pete or Palm Harbor today.