About Us

Connecting Communities with Local Farmers & Artisans

WNC Farmers Markets is your guide to fresh, local, and sustainable shopping. Our mission is to connect communities with the people who grow, craft, and create.

We believe that farmers markets are more than just a place to shop—they're a vital part of a thriving local economy, a gathering space for communities, and a way to support sustainable agriculture. Our platform exists to make it easier for you to find markets near you, discover fresh seasonal produce, and support small businesses that make Western North Carolina unique.

By providing up-to-date information on market locations, vendors, and events, we aim to empower both shoppers and sellers, ensuring that every visit to a local market is a meaningful experience.

WNC's Farming Traditions

Western North Carolina has a rich agricultural heritage that dates back generations. Known for its fertile valleys, sustainable farming practices, and vibrant local food culture, the region continues to support small farmers and preserve traditional farming techniques.

From the historic apple orchards of Henderson County to the thriving organic farms in Asheville, WNC is home to a diverse range of crops and livestock. The region's farmers markets reflect this diversity, offering everything from heirloom vegetables and artisanal cheeses to grass-fed meats and handmade goods.

As interest in locally grown and organic foods continues to rise, WNC remains at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the benefits of fresh, high-quality, and ethically produced foods.

Why Farmers Markets Matter

Boosting Local Economies

Research conducted by the American Farmland Trust and local economic studies has found that dollars spent at farmers markets tend to recirculate within the community at a higher rate than those spent at chain retailers. Some reports indicate that every $1 spent at a farmers market can generate roughly twice the economic activity compared to traditional grocery dollars.

Reference: American Farmland Trust (2007) - "How Local Food Systems Can Strengthen Rural Economies" (This source discusses the economic benefits of local food systems and includes multipliers related to farmers market spending.)

Local Retention Rates

Studies report that for every $100 spent at a local farmers market, approximately 62% stays in the local economy, compared to only 25% at chain retailers.

Reference: USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) - Local Food Systems (While the USDA ERS reports offer comprehensive data on market dynamics, check the latest reports for the most current figures.)

Supporting Small Farms & Businesses

Farmers markets allow small-scale farmers and artisans to sell directly to consumers, eliminating intermediaries and allowing them to capture a higher share of the final sale price. This direct-to-consumer model is well documented in various studies on local food systems.

Reference: American Farmland Trust (2007) - "How Local Food Systems Can Strengthen Rural Economies" (See the section discussing the benefits for small producers.)

Vendor Demographics

Data from the National Farmers Market Directory and surveys of farmers market vendors have consistently shown that a significant majority—often over 85%—of vendors at farmers markets are small business owners who rely on these venues as a primary sales channel.

Reference: National Farmers Market Directory - Vendor Surveys & Market Impact Reports (For more detailed statistics, you might also consult research summaries available on local food organization websites.)

While these sources provide a solid foundation, the exact figures can vary depending on the region and specific study. These statistics are representative based on findings from reputable organizations such as the American Farmland Trust and the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS). For the most current data, we encourage checking the latest reports and local economic studies.