Tucked in the Appalachian Mountains, Boone is your gateway to epic outdoor fun and a thriving community of local farmers and makers. Want to experience both in one go? Spend a morning at a farmers market. Whether you live here, are staying a while, or just passing through, these markets are a perfect way to dive into the local scene.
You’ll find everything from just-picked produce to handmade goods that capture the spirit of the High Country. Here’s a quick list of the best ones to check out!
1. Watauga County Farmers’ Market
You’ll find this farmers’ market at 591 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC (Daniel Boone Park parking lot) on Saturdays, April thru November, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The Watauga County Farmers’ Market is one of the most well-loved farmers markets in the High Country. Since 1974, this market has been drawing locals and tourists every weekend with its great mix of offerings. You’ll find an incredibly wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, fresh bread, pastries, and locally made crafts here. They even often host live music and family-friendly activities that further give this market a small-town festival feel.
2. King Street Farmers’ Market
You’ll find this farmers’ market at 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC in the summer, Tuesdays, May to October, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. In the winter, the market is relocated to a nearby indoor location to take place December through May, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
If you’re looking for a midweek market, the King Street Farmers’ Market is a great choice. This smaller market specializes in seasonal produce, meat, dairy, honey, and flowers, along with handmade goods. It’s also a great place to pick up fresh-cut flowers and potted plants. It’s a great stop after work or an afternoon hike, with a laid-back vibe and easy parking.
3. High Country Food Hub
You’ll find this farmers’ market hosting pick-ups at various locations. You can order from them year-round.
Prefer shopping from home? The High Country Food Hub is a convenient, year-round option. This virtual farmers market allows you to order local produce, meats, dairy, bread, artisan foods, body care products, and more. You simply place your order online anytime from Thursday to Monday and then pick up your goods at one of their pickup locations on the upcoming Wednesday or Thursday. It’s a great, simple, and delicious way to support local farmers within a busy schedule.
4. Blowing Rock Farmers’ Market
You’ll find this farmers’ market at 379 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock, NC on Thursdays, May to October, 3:00 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Just a short drive from Boone, this market offers a lovely mix of produce, baked goods, jams, and handcrafted items. Its location in the mountain town of Blowing Rock makes it easy to turn a shopping trip into a scenic afternoon outing.
5. Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market
You’ll find this farmers’ market at 101 Bark Park Way, Beech Mountain, NC on the First Friday of each month, June to October, 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
If you’re visiting Beech Mountain during the summer or fall, you will definitely want to visit the Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market. Held just once a month, this seasonal market boasts a festive feel. Vendors offer just about everything you could want, from fresh local produce to homemade baked goods, locally-raised meat, honey, artisan crafts, unique mountain-themed products, and more. This may be the best on our list for those looking for a one-stop spot where they can buy high-quality, locally made items as well as fresh, locally-sourced meat products like beef and lamb. But be sure to get there early! Because the first 100 attendees of each market receive a free themed shopping tote as a special gift.
6. Avery County Farmers’ Market
You’ll find this farmers’ market at Old Banner Elk School, Banner Elk, NC, on Thursdays, May to October, 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Located in the parking lot of the Banner Elk Elementary School, this farmers market is a great place to find fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, eggs, and homemade baked goods. You’ll also discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art from vendors here. The late afternoon hours for this market make it a perfect stop after a day of hiking or sightseeing in the area.
Why You Should Visit These Markets
We see farmers’ markets as way more than just a spot to grab groceries. They’re lively community hubs where you can chat with local growers, discover unique handmade goods, and soak up the local flavor. We mean that literally. You’ll find peak-season fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised meats, and small-batch items you won’t get anywhere else. Many markets also showcase pottery, woven art, handbound journals, and other one-of-a-kind finds that make for perfect keepsakes.
It’s a place where you can slow down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and strike up a conversation with the person who grew your food or made your soap. Add in live music, kids’ activities, and a friendly, small-town vibe, and you’ve got more than a market; you’ve got an experience. So, the only question we really have is are you now ready to fill a shopping tote at a Boone farmers market?
Learn More About All That Boone Has to Offer
Visiting a farmers market in the Boone area is a wonderful way to experience the local community while also getting something for yourself or for friends and family members back home. But whether you are picking up ingredients for your own dinner or searching for a unique gift for someone else, these farmers’ markets aren’t the only place around to find something cool and unique.
Check out our website to dive into everything Boone and the surrounding area have to offer. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or looking for hidden gems, you’ll find helpful tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit.
